Blackthorn is a dense, spiny native deciduous hedging plant with masses of small white flowers on its dark stems in spring before the leaves appear.

In autumn it produces blue-black fruits (sloes) which are particularly attractive to birds and are commonly used to make Sloe Gin. It makes a good security hedge.

Flowers: March-April.

Height: 9ft/3m if unprunned.

Hedges within gardens create a softer, more wildlife friendly boundary and can provide a great seasonal display of flowers, berries and autumn colour.

Even a small hedge can create your own little wildlife habitat. They can be close clipped or left a bit wilder, a mix of native varieties will give different periods of interest and a good nesting and winter food source for birds.

Planting distances vary from 30-60cm/1-2ft depending on the variety and the size of hedge required.

For a denser hedge plant a staggered double row with 38cm/15in between rows and 45cm/18ins between plants.

Plant size is approximately 45-60cm on arrival.