Is Blackthorn Poisonous?

Which parts of Blackthorn are edible?

The ripe flesh of the sloe, the blue-black fruit produced by Blackthorn, is edible. Sloes are naturally very tart and astringent, so they are usually cooked, preserved or infused rather than eaten by the handful straight from the hedge.

The hard stone is different. It should not be chewed, crushed or eaten, and the kernel inside it is not a food ingredient. Blackthorn belongs to the Prunus group, so the same sensible rule used with cherry, plum and related stones applies here.

Are Blackthorn leaves and stems safe to eat?

No part of a hedge should be treated as edible merely because its fruit can be used as food. Blackthorn leaves, stems, bark and roots are not parts we recommend eating. If you are gathering sloes, identify the plant accurately and use only sound, ripe fruit.

Are Blackthorn thorns dangerous?

The thorns are often the more immediate risk in a garden. Mature Blackthorn develops hard, sharp spines that make it an effective stock-proof and security hedge, but they can puncture skin. Wear sturdy gloves and long sleeves for pruning, picking or removing suckers, and avoid leaving thorny cuttings where people or animals can step on them.

This dense thorny habit is one reason a Blackthorn hedge suits boundaries where wildlife value and a strong physical barrier are wanted.

Where should you plant Blackthorn around a garden?

Allow enough space for the hedge to develop without pushing thorny growth directly into a narrow path, doorway or children’s play area. Blackthorn can also spread by root suckers, so its natural habit should be considered when choosing the planting position.

For pruning, sucker control and general management, see our Blackthorn hedge care guide.