WHAT DO SLOE BERRIES LOOK LIKE: They are bluish-black (we think purple) 'drupes' that often bear a waxy coating and are between 1 and 1.5cm long. To check – smash one up and look to see if it contains a large stone and, normally, not that much flesh.

What can be mistaken for sloes?

Sloes have shorter stems and hug the branches more. Steve pointed out (see comments) that sloes can be confused with Deadly Nightshade – you can see some photos Deadly Nightshade photos here.

Do any other berries look like sloes?

If you're looking for sloes, begin with hedgerows. ... Keep an eye out: their fruit looks much like sloe berries, except slightly larger (and, mercifully, surrounded by fewer prickly thorns). Bullace plums are similar in appearance, and also delicious.