Blackthorn bushes (Prunus spinosa) like to grow in Charlton Down Nature Area in two locations. A small cluster of the shrubs can be found beside the Rowan trees near the pond, and also in a designated area of Blackthorn Scrub at the bottom of the site. All the blossoms on the bushes look splendid in late winter to early spring when they are almost the first to flower, but for some unknown reason the blackthorns in the scrub area never develop any fruits or sloes. It’s a mystery.
Blackthorn is one of 28 species of trees and shrubs recorded on the site so far.
Useful Books and Links
Collins Complete Guide to British Trees – a photographic guide to every common species, Paul Sterry, Collins, 2007, ISBN 978_0_00_723685_5
https://www.wildlifetrusts.org/wildlife-explorer/trees-and-shrubs/blackthorn
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Charlton Down Nature Area 
Thanks for the links, Jessica. I was going to ask you if the fruits were edible. I see that they are drinkable, at least to some.
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