Prunus spinosa Britain, and in Germany and other central European countries. Sloes can also be made into jam, chutney, and used in fruit pies. Sloes preserved in vinegar are similar in taste to Japanese "umeboshi". The juice of the fruits dyes linen a reddish colour that washes out to a durable pale blue. Blackthorn makes an excellent fire wood that burns slowly with a good heat and little smoke. The wood takes a fine polish and is used for tool handles and canes. Straight blackthorn stems have traditionally been made into walking sticks or clubs (known in Ireland as a shillelagh). In
Prunus japonica making pies, but its taste is quite sour, reminiscent of that of sour cherry. Each fruit has one seed. The plant usually grows from seed but can also be propagated through cutting or layering. The plant thrives on well-drained and moist loamy soil and prefers little shade or no shade at all. The plant prefers some lime in the soil but not too much. It is mostly found at woodlands or sunny places. The leaves of this plant procure a green dye, while the fruit procures a greenish to grayish dye. There are several varieties: Prunus japonica Prunus japonica (also