Plant a Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa) in one of our Irish forests and help protect biodiversity with one of Ireland’s most resilient native trees. Known as a hardy guardian of the hedgerows, Blackthorn bursts into clouds of white blossom in early spring, feeding pollinators when little else is in flower. By autumn, it produces deep blue sloes, sustaining birds, mammals, and even humans for centuries through tradition. With a lifespan of 70–100 years, Blackthorn offers dense shelter for nesting birds, food across the seasons, and a lasting contribution to Ireland’s native woodlands.
When you plant a Blackthorn, you’re directly supporting Ireland’s natural heritage:
Providing nectar-rich blossoms for pollinators early in the year.
Supplying sloes and fruits for birds, mammals, and humans.
Offering dense shelter and nesting space for small birds.
Helping reduce carbon emissions and supply oxygen.
Strengthening Ireland’s reforestation efforts and biodiversity recovery.
Pollinator Support – Early spring blossoms provide vital nectar when little else is flowering.
Seasonal Food Supply – Deep blue sloes feed birds, mammals, and sustain traditional Irish culture.
Shelter & Nesting – Dense thorny growth protects small birds and wildlife from predators.
Carbon Storage – Helps capture and store carbon dioxide, reducing emissions.
Soil Stabilisation – Strong roots help bind and enrich the soil, supporting healthy ecosystems.
Cultural Value – Known for centuries as a hedgerow guardian and source of sloes for traditional drinks.
Longevity – Living for 70–100 years, Blackthorn supports biodiversity for generations.
The Blackthorn is a symbol of protection and endurance. Its dense branches shield the vulnerable, while its blossoms and fruits sustain life across the seasons. Long celebrated in Irish landscapes and traditions, planting a Blackthorn means adding resilience, nourishment, and beauty to Ireland’s forests.
Botanical Name: Prunus spinosa
Irish Tree Name: Draighean
Lifespan: 70–100 years
Type: Deciduous shrub/tree
Native to: Ireland & Europe
Wildlife Benefits: Nectar for pollinators, sloes for birds and mammals, dense shelter for nesting species
Cultural Significance: Hedgerow guardian, sloes used in traditional Irish food and drink
Blackthorn trees typically live for 70–100 years, providing long-lasting food and shelter for wildlife.
Blackthorn provides early-season blossoms for pollinators, autumn sloes for birds and mammals, and dense shelter for nesting wildlife.
Yes. Each Blackthorn comes with a hand-printed certificate by artist Sally Caulwell, showing the location and certificate number of your tree.
Absolutely. Planting a Blackthorn is a meaningful gift symbolising resilience and protection. The certificate makes it a lasting keepsake.
Your Blackthorn will be planted in one of our Irish reforestation sites, chosen for biodiversity and long-term woodland health.
Sloes are the small, dark blue fruits of the Blackthorn. They are a vital food source for birds and mammals in autumn and winter, and are also traditionally used in jams and drinks.
Live impact from our rewilding
Partner with us to plant native Irish trees and show real local impact. We create a tailored plan for your business, with options like trees per sale, monthly pledges, or team planting days. You receive impact reports, certificates for audits, and co-branded assets for PR and staff engagement, all aligned with CSR and ESG goals and the UN SDGs.
Grown Forest Partners With Leading Brands To Replant Native Irish Woodlands
