Blackthorn Bush in bloom

Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa) is a deciduous shrub from the Rose Family. It is common in all Polish mountains and can be found up to the elevations of 500 meters. Its branches are very thick and are a perfect place for many different birds to nest. White flowers of Prunus spinosa appear before the leaves usually at the end of April. Dried flowers can be used for medicinal purposes to cure stomach upsets. Dried flowers have a delicate fragrance which resembles the smell of almonds. Fruits are black and can be used in jellies and liqueurs. The Low Beskid - Rymanow Zdroj - Slope of Mount Mogila - April 23, 2008.