BLACKTHORN Prunus spinosa (Rosaceae) Height to 5m<br /> Thorny shrub that often forms dense thickets. Common in hedgerows and on sea cliffs. FLOWERS are 14-18mm across with 5 white petals; they appear before the leaves (Mar-Apr). FRUITS (sloes) are purplish with a powdery bloom, and resemble tiny plums. LEAVES areova, 2-4cm long and have toothed margins. STATUS-Common and widespread.
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