Blackthorn has a sinister reputation and to many it often represents the dark side of witchcraft and magick. It is a sacred tree to the Crone aspect of the Triple Goddess, and is associated with the Waning and Dark Moon. Blackthorn is also known as keeper of dark secrets.

Blackthorn is linked with wars, wounds and death, and sacred to the Scottish Crone Cailleach - the Divine Hag. Her time begins on Samhain, when she leaves the mountains and walks across the lands bringing winter storms, snow and Death.