Blackthorn bonsai (38)

Presentation

Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa), a deciduous species native to Mediterranean Italy, here 52 cm tall and currently in fruit: the black drupes are evenly spread through the canopy. The trunk rises with marked movement and cracked bark, with a nebari of 5 cm. An outdoor specimen for anyone looking for a species that flowers in late winter and fruits in autumn. This sloe bonsai (listed in our range as bonsai38) is a one-of-a-kind specimen.

Technical details

• Botanical species: Prunus spinosa (blackthorn)
• Style: informal upright, moving trunk with fruiting
• Height of the plant alone: 52 cm
• Nebari: 5 cm
• Age: about 12-14 years
• Pot: round, 28.5 cm diameter x h. 8.5 cm
• Pot material: blue glazed stoneware
• Total weight: 4.1 kg
• Position: outdoors, full sun with shade during the hottest hours
• Care level: medium

How to care for it

Blackthorn needs to stay outdoors all year round, winter included: the cold is essential for dormancy and for flowering in late February-March. From June to August the shallow 8.5 cm pot dries out quickly, so check it daily and water as soon as the substrate loses moisture at the surface; when ripe fruit is present, avoid drastic pruning and work instead once the leaves have fallen.

For more on caring for this species, see the full botanical care sheet.

Frequently asked questions

Will the black fruit shown in the photo still be there on delivery?

It depends on the season. Blackthorn drupes ripen between late summer and autumn and then drop naturally. The photo shows the actual specimen that will be sent, but the foliage may differ from the picture due to growth, pruning, pinching and the normal seasonal cycle.

How much space does it take up and how much does it weigh once set out?

The plant alone is 52 cm tall, while the round pot is 28.5 cm in diameter and 8.5 cm high. The total weight of plant, pot and substrate is 4.1 kg: a sturdy shelf or an outdoor table will hold it with no trouble.

Can it be kept indoors?

No. Blackthorn is a deciduous broadleaf that needs the full seasonal cycle, including low winter temperatures. Indoors it would drop its leaves without a proper rest period and would not flower again. Keep it on a balcony, terrace or in the garden all year round.

What's included

• Blackthorn bonsai (Prunus spinosa) 52 cm tall in a round blue glazed stoneware pot 28.5 cm diam. x h. 8.5 cm, the exact specimen in the photo
• Plant certificate (the specimen's identity card with species, measurements and characteristics)
• Reinforced packaging designed to protect the plant in transit