Overview
Prunus spinosa is a bushy trees in the genus Prunus, part of the Rosaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 2.5-4 metres tall and 2.5-4 metres wide, reaching full size in around 20-50 years. Prunus spinosa grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is attractive to pollinators. Suggested uses include coastal, cottage and informal garden, wildflower meadow and wildlife gardens. It is native to Europe to Russia Med..
About
Prunus spinosa is a compact, thorny deciduous tree characterized by its dark green, oval-shaped leaves. In early spring, it showcases small white blossoms, which give way to round, black fruits measuring approximately 1.5 cm in diameter. This species has a tendency to produce suckers that can grow both vertically and horizontally, potentially becoming invasive. To maintain control, it is recommended to remove these suckers unless a dense thicket is desired.
About the genus
Prunus includes both deciduous and evergreen trees or shrubs, known for their prominent spring blooms and often vibrant fall leaf color. Several species produce edible fruit during the autumn months, while a select few are noted for their decorative bark.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Prunus
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- West-facing, South-facing, North-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Prunus spinosa size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Trees
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 2.5-4 metres
- Spread
- 2.5-4 metres
- Time to full height
- 20-50 years
- Suggested uses
- Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens
- Native to
- Europe to Russia Med.
- Toxicity
- Seed kernels harmful if eaten, wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets (dogs, rabbits, rodents): Harmful if eaten - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Prunus spinosa
- Cultivation
- Easy to grow native shrub or small tree, that can be used for hedging. Grows in any moist well-drained soil in full sun
- Pruning
- Pruning group 1. Prune in mid-summer if silver leaf is a problem
- Propagation
- Propagate by softwood cuttings in early summer with bottom heat or propagate by seed
- Pest resistance
- Susceptible to damage from aphids, caterpillars and bullfinches
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to silver leaf and blossom wilt. High Risk Host for Xylella fastidiosa
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Prunus spinosa?
Easy to grow native shrub or small tree, that can be used for hedging. Grows in any moist well-drained soil in full sun.
Where is the best place to plant Prunus spinosa?
Prunus spinosa prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Prunus spinosa need?
Prunus spinosa is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Prunus spinosa?
Pruning group 1. Prune in mid-summer if silver leaf is a problem.
How big does Prunus spinosa grow?
Prunus spinosa reaches a height of 2.5-4 metres and a spread of 2.5-4 metres. It takes around 20-50 years to reach full size.
Is Prunus spinosa hardy in the UK?
Prunus spinosa has a UK hardiness rating of H7.
How do I propagate Prunus spinosa?
Propagate by softwood cuttings in early summer with bottom heat or propagate by seed.
Is Prunus spinosa good for pollinators?
Yes — Prunus spinosa attracts and supports pollinators such as bees and other beneficial insects.
Is Prunus spinosa toxic?
Seed kernels harmful if eaten, wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets (dogs, rabbits, rodents): Harmful if eaten - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants.