Christ's Thorn, Jeruselem thorn

Paliurus spina-christi

Physical Characteristics

Paliurus spina-christi is a deciduous Shrub growing to 5 m (16ft) by 5 m (16ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in flower from July to August, and the seeds ripen from October to December. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very alkaline soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

S. Europe to W. Asia.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Hedge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or dried for later use. A pleasant sub-acid taste, somewhat resembling dried apples[183]. The woody fruit is up to 30mm in diameter[200].

Medicinal Uses

Astringent Diuretic Tonic Anticathartic, astringent, diuretic and tonic[218].

Known Hazards

None known