Blackthorn Scrub – W22

Prunus spinosa – Rubus fruticosus scrub

Region 

Widespread but sparse. More common on the East Durham Plateau

Character 

Woodland margins. Abandoned grassland.

Geology 

Generally associated with mesotrophic soils, avoiding both strongly acid soils, droughty rendzinas and infertile sites. 

Soils 

Absent from peat. More common on Magnesian Limestone.

Species 

Blackthorn overwhelmingly dominant with occasional Hazel or Wild Privet.

Ground Flora and Fauna

Ivy and Bramble

Structure

Dense Blackthorn dominated thickets usually to 4m in height.

Management Principles 

Intervention rarely required unless encroaching on other valued habitat.

Planting Sites for New Woods

Coastal sites.  Woodland margins on moist, moderately base rich soils.

Design Principles 

Blackthorn dominated stands.