Properties of Timber: Blackthorn (Sloe)

The Blackthorn is a plum, but one in a state of nature, and not much regarded as a fruit. It is the Prunus spinosa of botanists. It is hardy, and a native of many parts of this country, though seldom cultivated, as it makes an unsightly hedge, and is not valuable as a tree.

The leaves have sometimes been used for tea, and it is alleged that 'rough-flavoured teas' of cheap dealers are more iindebted for their roughness to the sloe than to any ingredient from China or elsewhere.

It is also understood that the berries of the sloe enter into the composition of much of the wine that is miscalled Port.

The wood, which is very tough and hard, answers well for walking-sticks, pegs, and other small purposes.

summarised from "The Library of Entertaining Knowledge - Timber trees" (1829), pub. Charles Knight, Pall Mall.



ND, habitat21

Back to top