Sloe Bush
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Sloe Bush

Prunus spinosa

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Supplied as a bare root tree pruned to approximately 4 - 5 feet (1.2 - 1.5 metres) tall including roots.

More commonly known as Blackthorn, it is actually the fruit of the bush that is known as the sloe.

A native to the UK, these are often found growing wild in hedgerows and scrub land - but for those wanting to guarantee a supply of Sloes (or should that be homemade sloe gin?) there is no better way than planting a few.

In April and May they are covered in clouds of pretty bowl-shaped white flowers which, come the Autumn, will result in a heavy crop of those all important blue-black fruits. We find it better to let the fruits have a frost or two before picking as this will sweeten the fruit ever so slightly - worth considering when making jams and jellies.

Left to their own devices they will grow to a substantial bushy tree up to 16 feet (5 metres) tall, but they take well to being pruned and we would suggest maintaining as a 6 - 8 feet (1.8 - 2.4 metre) tall bush.

Planted 2 feet (60cm) apart they make an excellent hedge that is all but impenetrable - due to the vicious spines on the stems (hence thorn in the name).

These really are a bit of England's heritage. The wood was a favourite in times of old for making magical wands and divining rods; in more recent times it has been said make the best walking sticks.

It's medicinal uses are also legendary. It is said a tea made from the leaves is a mild purgative and will also help with bladder problems and bronchial problems; the fresh juice from the fruit is said to help throat infections - but as they are so 'sharp' we think you'd have to be feeling pretty poorly to try that! (As with all plants with purported 'medicinal' benefits it is important to inform your health care providers that you are using them for this purpose; this helps to ensure safe and coordinated care).

Recommended by the RHS to be an excellent attractant and nectar source for bees and other beneficial insects.

Supplied as a bare root tree pruned to approximately 4 - 5 feet (1.2 - 1.5 metres) tall including roots.

For a little more in depth information on Sloe Bush you may find the following articles of great use...
Bee Friendly Plants
How To Plant Fruit Trees & Nut Trees
Fruit Tree Pollination Simplified (hopefully)
Sloe Gin Recipe
How To Plant Bare Root & Potted Fruit Trees (Video)

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