Rowan Rowan "Rowan is the tree of power, causing life and magic to flower." The Lady of the Mountains Second month of the Celtic Tree calendar, January 21st - February 17th Second consonant of the Ogham alphabet - Luis Deity: Brigantia, Brigid, Virgin Mary, Thor Sabbat: Imbolc, Candlemas Folk Names: Delight of the Eye, Mountain Ash, Quickbane, Ran Tree, Roden-Quicken, Roden-Quicken-Royan, Roynetree, Sorb Apple, Thor's Helper, Whitty, Wicken-Tree, Wiggin, Wiggy, Wiky, Wild Ash, Witchbane, Witchen, Witchwood Medicinal properties: The berries contain a high concentration of Vitamin C, a good preventative and treatment for scurvy. They also contain organic acids, tannins, sugars. The berries have been used to make general tonics for the body since the ripe berries are mildly purgative and diuretic. Magickal properties: Using meditation, Rowan is helpful with clearing the mind and opening our inspiration.

The Essence of Rowan is used in vibrational medicine to assist in attuning us to nature, broadening perspectives, and making room for a deeper understanding of our place here in the universe. It also has a significant role in protection. Rowan wood was traditionally used to make spindles and spinning wheels, tool handles, stakes and pegs, dowsing and divining rods. A rowan wand or walking stick will protect you from being harmed on a journey and bring spiritual enlightenment along your path. To the Celts the Rowan was a symbol of the hidden mysteries of nature and the quickening of the life force. Scottish tradition did not allow for the use of Rowan wood for any other purpose than ritual. Rowan is not to be forgotten, set aside, or ignored. She is the power within you to call forth your elegance and mastery of your logical mind as it intermingles with your intuitive powers. She calls you into the path of future planning, use of symbology, and talismans to form order to your designs. Let this time be the time you put your dreams into a sequence of architectural designs. Perform an act of accomplishment for each step of your unfolding plan.

Use your act as a building block to bring your dreams to fruition. Trusting your intuition and logical intelligence will give you insights for more planning. Let prophetic insights assist you. A Celtic Oracle of Avalon by Katherine Torres, Ph.D. Rowan's name means "a secret" or "to whisper" and shares it's origin with rune. Peace to these little broken leaves, That strew our common ground; That chase their tails, like silly dogs, As they go round and round. For though in winter boughs are bare, Let us not once forget Their summer glory, when these leaves Caught the great Sun in their strong net; And made him, in the lower air, Tremble - no bigger than a star! - W.H. Davies, Leaves Use a handful of dried Rowan berries for Rowan berry tea. Place them in the center of a small square of white or purple cloth. Gather the cloth over the berries and tie it into a bundle with white or purple ribbon. Hang this in your kitchen during flu season or keep it for the entire winter. "The Rowan Tree forecasts a bright future for you.

Red being the color of fire, Rowan means "flame." What you need will gravitate toward you in the same way that the Rowan's red berries give it power to attract birds. Patience is indicated by the life-giving properties of energy and protection that the Rowan symbolizes. There is a sign that something is coming soon, because the Rowan is one of the first trees to bud. May Poles are made from the Rowan, so flirtations and romance are forecast. A merry-go-round begins, bringing people together by magical charm. The Rowan also brings protection, as it has always been used to make amulets to guard against evil and ills." from The Wisdom of Trees by Jane Gifford Rowan is able to flourish higher up on the mountains than most other trees. Closer to the sun and divine inspiration in this extreme environment, it yet retains its grace of form and its potential for healing. Exposed to the elements on solitary crags, it still produces blossom and berries to delight the eye and heal the body, bringing vibrant color and birdsong to the hills. Rowan emphasizes the need for color and creative endeavor in our lives and encourages us to open our minds to creative inspiration.

It also teaches us that we can draw on the forces of life to heal ourselves and those around us. We can develop the art of turning adversity into creative opportunity. Rowan protects and gives courage and strength to those walking the path of spiritual growth and enlightenment. For the Celts, the rowan was the Tree of Quickening, of Sacred Fire, of the Awakening Spirit, and the Sun. by Teresa Moorey The Rowan Fairy is strong and protective, yet feminine and very magical. Norse myth tells that the first woman was formed from a rowan, while the ash formed the first man. Rowan is reported to have saved the life of the god Thor by bending over a swift river where he was drowning and enabling him to pull himself out. The Druids used incense made from rowan wood to conjure spirits, yet the rowan fairy has such a grounding influence that she can connect you with the Otherworld while keeping you firmly in this world. Rowan protects against superstition and fosters a positive attitude. The rowan is planted near homes, for protection and insight. The rowan fairy is one of the most helpful of all, for she values the matters of this world and seeks to establish a connection with the subtle realms.

She repels intruders firmly, yet invites interchange between the realms of being. Rowan is very powerful near stone circles and barrow-mounds, for her abilities are enhanced in these places. Her power will come with you if you carry rowan berries in your pocket, to where the water meets the land - and this can inspire you to write poetry. The presence of a rowan tree in the yard or garden is said to provide the home and family with fairy blessings, and the protection of the fae. Rowan is also believed to provide protection from fairy spells. Rowan was once used as a charm to prevent fairies from spoiling butter as it was churned. In Scotland, the smoke from fires kindled of rowan wood was used to protect cattle from malicious fairies. OGHAM The Celtic Oracle by Peter Pracownik and Andy Baggott This is a time to freely express yourself both emotionally and creatively. Remember that you are ony responsible for your actions, not other peoples' reactions to them; so don't let others close to you down. Be aware of negative influences around you and protect yourself by wearing a crystal or some other protective charm.

Give yourself the time and space to let new thoughts and ideas arise in you, take time out to clear your mind so that you also have the mental space to facilitate this. Call upon the energies of the Mother Goddess to teach you how to best nurture your new ideas so that they can bear fruit. The Rowan is a tree of magical protection long used to ward off enchantment and lightning. Its flame-red berries bear the sign of the pentagram, the protective five-pointed star and it is said that a rowan whip or branch can break the spell of an enchanted horse. A cross made of rowan and bound with red thread was used by our ancestors as a protective charm above the doors of houses as celebrated in the rhyme: "Rowan tree, red thread, Holds the witches all in dread." Likewise its flower, berry or wood was regarded as a protection against the wiles of elf-folk. Bridget, Goddess of the Sacred Flame and of Healing The major part of the legend of the goddess Bridget fell into oblivion in the darkness of the Middle Ages. But even today many still claim that Bridget is born at sunrise, a flame on her head that leaps up into the sky.

This is the sign of the sacred child and the sign of the goddess. In ancient times Bridget's flame was taken care of by nineteen virgin priestesses at her sacred altar in Kildare. It was said that on every 20th day Bridget herself poked the fire. She was the patron of blacksmiths and helped them to forge the iron which was so important for the development of their craft. The tale about Bridget's powers were known all over the Celtic lands, and everywhere people told stories of miraculous healing. The goddess possessed the knowledge of the healing plants. They possessed the power to heal people with the water of her sacred spring and to cure even lepers. With the advent of Christianity the ancient goddess Bridget was made a Christian saint. This was the only way people could keep her goddess, whom they trusted since thousands of years, and continue to worship her. People loved Bridget so much that she was canonized, some even say by St. Patrick himself, and her fire was kept alive in Kildare by nuns up to the 13th century. Like hardly any other goddess the Celtic goddess Bridget was accepted as canonized into the new religion of Christianity.

That way she didn't pose a threat to the new spiritual rule any longer, since people were allowed to worship her in her new form. Today more and more people remember Bridget's work and begin again to follow the hidden paths of mystic mediation. Bridget's flame is still lit at many altars and still shining bright for those who have eyes to see. The flame of insight and wisdom is your link to heaven and your true home. It is a link to the invisible world where you, too, came from. Allow the flame of healing to touch your head. Don't be afraid! It has the power to enlighten your mind and to give you a new understanding. Direct your attention to this inner flame. You, too, possess healing powers. All you have to do is remember them. All inner knowledge falls into human oblivion if you don't care for your own sacred inner flame. So surrender to your own inner divine fire of wisdom with confidence. The flame you realize through your existence and your earthly body lives for all eternity. It is guarding and protecting and guiding you. It is real as soon as you accept it as your own. It helps you to understand yourself and conceive yourself as part of the great miracle.

Your life will enfold to its true beauty and show you the way out of fear and darkness. excerpts from my Oracle of the Goddess deck by Gayan Sylvie Winder and Jo Dose. The Green Man Tree Oracle by John Matthews and Will Worthington SAFE IN THE KNOWLEDGE OF PROTECTION Protection means that we are looked after by a power stronger than ourselves. Whether we look to a god or gods, to angels or spirits, for our help we should acknowledge the need for protection in every aspect of life. Just as we would be foolish to attempt to climb a mountain without strong ropes and proper equipment, we should not consider entering into any other activity without ensuring we have the proper protection. Rowan's ability to sheild us from harm makes its presence a powerful ally, and it is still invoked in parts of Europe as a guardian against evil spririts or other negative forces. It can also ofer insight into danger throught the invocation of higher wisdom. It is thought that the Rowan got its name from the Norse word runa, meanding 'charm.' It has had an association with protection from ancient times, and is often found growing close to houses and churchyards to ward off evil presences.

Traditions speak of the rowan as an especially powerful protector against witchcraft, and that to bind a piece of red thread around a twig of rowan can turn aside the strongest spell. THE CELTIC TREE ORACLE by Liz and Colin Murray The Rowan has long enjoyed its reputation to protect against enchantment. Its name is linked with the Norse "runa" a charm, and the Sanskrit "runa" meaning a magician. Rune staves, sticks upon which runes were inscribed, were cut from the Rowan tree. Another use for this wood was for metal divining, as Hazel twigs are used for water. Along with certain other trees, Rowan played a ventral role in Druid ceremonies. Even in more recent times, these beliefs have been upheld in practives from different parts of Britain. In the North, for example, sprays of Rowan were fixed to cattle sheds to protect the animals from harm, and in Strathspey farmers drove their goats through hoops framed from branches of Rowan.

Sprigs were placed over the main door of the house and also worn on the person to ward off false enchantment - the "evil eye." In Wales, or Cymru, Rowans used to be planted in churchyards to watch over the spirits of the dead. Examine a red Rowan berry and you will discover that unlike many other fruits that bear just a round hollow or dimple opposite their stalks, it carries a tiny, five-pointed star, or pentagram - the ancient magical symbol of protection. Undoubtedly if you are in danger of "enchantment," being swayed or mesmerized by harmful or vindictive powers, you need your wits about you. The Rowan, Mountain Ash or Witchwood is a tree of protection and vision and is sacred to the Crone aspect of the Goddess. Take with you a small offering, such as a little wine or a small biscuit, and seek out a Rowan.... Once you find the tree, first make your offering to its spirit, saying: "Graceful Rowan, if it pleases you, let me find some of your wood, that I might protect my home and all who live within it. I give this offering freely as I give my love to the land.

Blessed Be." Search carefully around the tree for fallen wood and take on piece for each of the doors which lead into your home. If you find a piece straight and long enough for a wand, you may also take this. A wand's length is the distance from your elbow to the centre of the palm of your strong hand. Thank the tree and take your wood home with you. Tie a small length of red thread around each piece of wood you have found, hang them over the doors which enter your home to protect against people bringing negative thoughts and feelings into the house. adapted from The Real Witches' Year ~by Kate West You can also bind the rowan twigs together with red thread into a solar cross or pentagram to make a mighty protective talisman for your home, car, or your desk or locker at work. 'Rowan twigs and strings of red, Deflect all harm, gossip, and dread.' The Rowan is worth growing in your yard, as it had four-season interest: flowers in the spring, green leaves in the summer, and reddish foliage in the fall. It bears small orange-red berries that are prized by birds throughout the late fall and winter months.

Celtic Moon sign - Rowan Moon Sometimes referred to as "the whispering tree," the rowan tree's magic was well known among the Celts. Its berry is shaped like a five-pointed star, first of all, the symbol of magical protection against spells, enchantments, and glamour. You, too, are a magical creature, able to use you intuition and higher understanding to both enchant and protect. Trust your insights, and act upon them - even if you're seen as "unusual" or "unpredictable" by others. Your ability to envision the future is priceless. Written by Kim Rogers-Gallagher, and Llewellyn's Witches' Datebook 2000 Focus on how to go about getting your goals. Spells involving communication and physic connects work well at this time of the year. Born under this Magickal sign, you use your intuition and higher understanding to enchant and protect. Quite often you are seen as unusual by others, mainly due to your ability to envision the future. I am protected and indestructible. Come what may, I am loved. I accept the sweetness and abundance of Life and acknowledge my gifts. I honor the energy of Rowan for protection against evil enchantment.

I will not hobble myself with the chains of past failures. Mythology and Folklore of Rowan | Trees for Life Rowan Rowan The rowan's mythic roots go back to classical times. Greek mythology tells of how Hebe the goddess of youth, dispensed rejuvenating ambrosia to the gods from her magical chalice. When, through carelessness, she lost this cup to demons, the gods sent an eagle to recover the cup. The feathers and drops of blood which the eagle shed in the ensuing fight with the demons fell to earth, where each of them turned into a rowan tree. Hence the rowan derived the shape of its leaves from the eagle's feathers and the appearance of its berries from the droplets of blood. The rowan is also prominent in Norse mythology as the tree from which the first woman was made, (the first man being made from the ash tree). It was said to have saved the life of the god Thor by bending over a fast flowing river in the Underworld in which Thor was being swept away, and helping him back to the shore. Rowan was furthermore the prescribed wood on which runes were inscribed to make rune staves.

In the British Isles the rowan has a long and still popular history in folklore as a tree which protects against witchcraft and enchantment. The physical characteristics of the tree may have contributed to its protective reputation, including the tiny five pointed star or pentagram on each berry opposite its stalk (the pentagram being an ancient protective symbol). The colour red was deemed to be the best protection against enchantment, and so the rowan's vibrant display of berries in autumn may have further contributed to its protective abilities, as suggested in the old rhyme: "Rowan tree and red thread / make the witches tine (meaning 'to lose') their speed". The rowan was also denoted as a tree of the Goddess or a Faerie tree by virtue (like the hawthorn and elder) of its white flowers. There are several recurring themes of protection offered by the rowan. The tree itself was said to afford protection to the dwelling by which it grew, pieces of the tree were carried by people for personal protection from witchcraft, and sprigs or pieces of rowan were used to protect especially cows and their dairy produce from enchantment.

Thus we find documented instances as late as the latter half of the twentieth century of people being warned against removing or damaging the rowan tree growing in their newly acquired garden in the Scottish Highlands and Ireland. On the Isle of Man crosses made from rowan twigs without the use of a knife were worn by people and fastened to cattle, or hung inside over the lintel on May Eve each year. From Scotland to Cornwall similar equal-armed crosses made from rowan twigs and bound with red thread were sewn into the lining of coats or carried in pockets. Other permutations of the use of rowan's protective abilities are many and widespread. In Scandinavia, rowan trees found growing not in the ground but out of some inaccessible cleft in a rock, or out of crevasses in other trees' trunks or boughs, possessed an even more powerful magic, and such trees were known as 'flying rowan'. Rowan has had a wide range of popular folk names, the most well-know being mountain ash. Its old Gaelic name from the ancient Ogham script was Luis from which the place name Ardlui on Loch Lomond may have been derived.

The more common Scots Gaelic name is caorunn (pronounced choroon, the ch as in loch), which crops up in numerous Highland place names such as Beinn Chaorunn in Inverness-shire and Loch a'chaorun in Easter Ross. Rowan was also the clan badge of the Malcolms and McLachlans. There were strong taboos in the Highlands against the use of any parts of the tree save the berries, except for ritual purposes. For example a Gaelic threshing tool made of rowan and called a buaitean was used on grain meant for rituals and celebrations. The strength of these taboos did not apply in other parts of Britain it seems, though there were sometimes rituals and timings to be observed in harvesting the rowan's gifts (for example the rule against using knives to cut the wood, mentioned above). The rowan's wood is strong and resillient, making excellent walking sticks, and is suitable for carving. It was often used for tool handles, and spindles and spinning wheels were traditionally made of rowan wood. Druids used the bark and berries to dye the garments worn during lunar ceremonies black, and the bark was also used in the tanning process.

Rowan twigs were used for divining, particularly for metals. The berries can be made into or added to a variety of alcoholic drinks, and different Celtic peoples each seem to have had their favourites. As well as the popular wine still made in the Highlands, the Scots made a strong spirit from the berries, the Welsh brewed an ale, the Irish used them to flavour Mead, and even a cider can be made from them. Today rowan berry jelly is still made in Scotland and is traditionally eaten with game. Paul Kendall Are Rowan Berries Poisonous? Are Rowan Berries Poisonous? by Russ on October 14, 2013 One of the most striking of the Autumn trees has to be the Rowan Tree . Also called the Mountain Ash, this species is actually not a relative of the common ash at all. The leaves do look similar, but the Rowan’s has spiky edges. You can identify the Rowan in Autumn because it’s leaves are turning bright red and orange and it will probably be covered in clusters of bright red berries. The berries contain the seeds of the Rowan. They want to be seen by any passing creatures, particularly those that can see colour .

For these species (which include us) red is possibly the most eye catching, so the Rowan uses the colour red for it’s berries. An animal then eats the berries, travels to a new location and excretes the seeds in a pile of natural fertiliser! But bright colours in the Natural Kingdom can also be a warning of poison. So are the Rowan berries poisonous? The answer is no. Birds will gobble them down by the beak-full and although raw berries are unpleasant to eat, there are recipes you can find for Home Made Rowan Berry Marmalade ! Just make sure if you do go out collecting that you only take what you need and leave plenty for the birds, they will as many berries as they can find come winter! Don’t forget… Leave a question or comment below if you try out making your own Rowan Marmalade and you could be featured in our future blogs ! You can send any queries to: Also remember to subscribe to our blog at the top right of the screen for updates on events, your pictures, wildlife and much more. Take care and remember, stay on the wild side.

Bill Jackson November 19, 2015 at 3:02 pm Hi I have what I believe is a Rowan tree, but the birds do not eat any of the berries, but they do eat all the berries off a holy tree., so I am now wondering if the tree is a Rown after all. Maybe you could tell me if there is a similar tree with poison berrys. Regards Bill Russ H November 19, 2015 at 4:36 pm Hi Bill, If it isn’t a ROwan, it could be a Swedish Whitebeam. Birds, however, will also feed from this tree too. It sounds like you birds are simply favouring one food source over another. The Holly berries in your garden clearly taste better (or have more energy) than the other tree. Hope this helps, June Miller September 8, 2016 at 10:22 am I often make rowan jelly from red rowan berries, however, I recently found two rowan trees with white berries and another with pink berries (definitely rowan trees) can anyone tell me if these coloured berries are safe to eat please…thanks.

Cheryl Easton October 2, 2016 at 11:34 pm Hi, I’m trying to find out whether I can use the different coloured Rowan berries to make Rowan jelly. Where I am we have white, pink, pale yellow and orange as well as the usual red and I’d like to make a selection of jellies. Do you know whether all colours are safe to use? Thank you.

C Easton Rowan (Sorbus aucuparia) - British trees - Woodland Trust Rowan (Sorbus aucuparia) Rowan trees can live for up to 200 years Leaves are arranged like a feather Each leaflet is long, oval and has a toothed edge Leaves are feather-like with fight to eight pairs of leaflets (Photo: P Sterry/WTML) Flowers appear in dense clusters and each has five creamy white petals (Photo: P Sterry/WTML) Rowan is widely planted as a street or garden tree (Photo: P Sterry/WTML) The seeds from the scarlet rowan berries are dispersed by birds (Photo: P Sterry/WTML) Each leaflet is long and pointed at the end Twigs are smooth to the touch Leaf buds on twigs are purple and hairy (Photo: P Sterry/WTML) Rowan bark is smooth and silvery-grey (Photo: P Sterry/WTML) Rowan grows well on high ground and can be found growing wild in the Scottish Highlands (Photo: A Cleave/WTML) Rowan is also known as mountain ash and is native to the UK and northern and western Europe.

Common name: rowan, mountain ash Scientific name: Sorbus aucuparia Family: Rosaceae UK provenance: native Interesting fact: the rowan is also known as the mountain ash, due to the fact that it grows well at high altitudes and its leaves are similar to those of the ash, Fraxinus excelsior. However, the two species are not related. What does rowan look like? Overview: mature trees can grow to 15m and can live for up to 200 years. The bark is smooth and silvery grey, and leaf buds are purple and hairy. Leaves: pinnate (like a feather), comprising 5-8 pairs of leaflets, plus one 'terminal' leaflet at the end. Each leaflet is long, oval and toothed. Flowers: rowan is hermaphrodite, meaning each flower contains both male and female reproductive parts. Flowers are borne in dense clusters, each one bearing five creamy white petals Fruits: after successful pollination by insects, they develop into scarlet fruits. The seeds are dispersed by birds. Look out for: it has 5-8 pairs of serrated leaflets which are distinctive.

Could be confused with: ash (Fraxinus excelsior) or elder (Sambucus nigra), however, the leaflets are serrated and more or less pointed at the end in rowan than both of these. Identified in winter by: the young twigs start hairy and become smooth later. Buds are hairy all over. Terminal buds (on the ends of shoots) are up to 8mm in length and lateral buds (in leaf axils) have 2-5 scales. Where to find rowan Native to cooler regions of the northern hemisphere and most common in the UK in the north and west, it often grows in high altitude locations. It is commonly found in the wild, particularly in the highlands of Scotland, but it is also widely planted as a street or garden tree. Value to wildlife The leaves are eaten by caterpillars of a number of moths, including the larger Welsh wave and autumn green carpet. Caterpillars of the apple fruit moth feed on the berries.

Flowers provide pollen and nectar for bees and other pollinating insects, while the berries are a rich source of autumn food for birds, especially the blackbird, mistle thrush, redstart, redwing, song thrush, fieldfare and waxwing. Mythology and symbolism The colour red was considered to be the best colour for fighting evil, and so the rowan, with its bright red berries, has long been associated with magic and witches. Its old Celtic name is 'fid na ndruad', which means wizards' tree. In Ireland it was planted near houses to protect them against spirits, and in Wales rowan trees were planted in churchyards. Cutting down a rowan was considered taboo in Scotland. The wood was used for stirring milk to prevent it curdling, and as a pocket charm against rheumatism. It was also used to make divining rods. How we use rowan The wood is pale yellow-brown with a deeper brown heartwood. It is strong, hard and tough, but not particularly durable. It is sometimes used in turnery, furniture, craftwork and engraving.

Rowan berries are edible to humans - they are sour but rich in vitamin C, and can be used to make a jelly to accompany meats. Threats Rowan can be susceptible to fireblight and may be affected by silver leaf disease. It can also suffer from browsing by deer. Trees need your help... will buy and install a bat or bird box to support woodland wildlife. Every £30 you give will pay for brambles to be cut back encouraging wildflowers to grow. Every £50 you give will pay for the land, planting and care of five oak saplings. Want to donatea different amount? Whatever you choose to give, your donation will help us protect woodland and wildlife. Trees need your help... Rowan | Trees for Life Distribution Global distribution Rowan occurs widely throughout Europe, in western Asia in Russia and the Caucasus region, and in north Africa in the mountains of Morocco. Throughout its range it occurs in a variety of habitats, but it commonly grows in mountains and has been recorded at elevations of up to 2,000 metres in France.

Together with downy birch (Betula pubescens) and some willows (Salix spp.), it grows at the most northerly limit of trees in Europe, at latitude 70° north, in Finnmark in Norway. Five subspecies of rowan are recognised by scientists, and three of these have restricted distributions - one is limited to Bulgaria, another to northeastern Russia and a third to southern Italy, Sicily and Corsica. The other two subspecies are more widely distributed throughout the tree's range in Europe. Distribution in Scotland Rowan grows in most parts of Britain, but is more common in the north and west, and is found throughout Scotland. It grows at a higher altitude than any other tree in the country and occurs at elevations of almost 1,000 metres in parts of the Highlands. This attribute, together with the similarity of its leaves to those of the ash tree (Fraxinus excelsior), gives rise to its alternative common name of mountain ash. At higher elevations it survives as small saplings which are frequently stunted in form. In Scotland today, rowans are often found growing in inaccessible locations, such as cliffs, steep stream-sides and on top of large boulders.

However, these are not the preferred locations for the species, but rather are the only places where it has been able to grow out of reach of herbivores such as red deer (Cervus elaphus) and sheep. Physical Characteristics Rowan is a fast-growing, short-lived pioneer tree in the rose family, Rosaceae. It is typically a small tree, reaching a maximum height of 10-15 metres, or exceptionally, 20 metres. It is slender in form, although mature trees can be quite substantial - an old rowan at Carnach Mor on the West Affric Estate has a trunk which is over 40 cm. in diameter. Multi-stemmed forms are quite common, as a result of browsing by mammals and the subsequent production of basal shoots. The greyish-brown bark is smooth and shiny when wet, with dark raised dots or lenticels scattered across it. The branches are typically upward-pointing and terminate in ovoid, purplish buds, which are often covered in grey hairs.

Rowan leaves are compound and pinnate in form, meaning that each leaf is made up of matched pairs of leaflets on either side of a stem or rachis, with a terminal leaflet at the end. Leaves are up to 20 cm. in length, and are comprised of 9-15 leaflets, which are serrated with small teeth. Rowan is a deciduous tree, with the new leaves appearing in April, and they turn a bright orange-red colour in autumn before being shed. Reproduction The flowers blossom after the leaves have appeared, usually in May or early June, and are creamy-white in colour. Individual flowers are about 1 cm. in diameter and they grow in dense clusters or corymbs, each containing up to 250 flowers, and measuring 8-15 cm. across. The strong, sweet scent attracts pollinating insects, including many species of flies, bees and beetles. The fertilised flowers grow into berries which are 8 mm. in diameter and these ripen to a bright red colour in August or early September.

The berries are rich in ascorbic acid (vitamin C), and contain up to 8 small seeds, although 2 seeds per fruit is most common. They are eaten primarily by birds, who disperse the seeds in their droppings . Seed production begins when the tree is about 15 years old, and in mild climates, rowan will fruit each year. However, in harsher environments such as Glen Affric, fruiting is irregular, and mast seed production, when all the trees produce a heavy crop, occurs every few years, with very little fruiting taking place in between. The tough coat of the rowan seed requires cold weather to break down, and germination usually occurs in the first or second spring after the berries have been produced. Seedlings and saplings are shade-tolerant, and are often found under the branches of large Scots pines (Pinus sylvestris), where they have grown in the droppings of birds which perched on the branches above. For similar reasons, rowans also germinate in the forks of the trunks of pines and other trees, but in most cases there is insufficient organic matter for these seedlings to grow to more than a metre or two in size.

Exceptions to this do occur, and near Glac Daraich in Glen Affric there is a good example of a rowan which became established about two metres up an alder (Alnus glutinosa) and grew into a mature tree, partly embracing the alder, after its roots reached the soil below. Ecological Relationships Rowan is an integral part of the Caledonian Forest, where it grows in association with Scots pines, and it also occurs in oak (Quercus spp.) and birch ( Betula spp. ) woodlands. It rarely forms single-species stands of its own. A variety of mycorrhizal fungi are associated with rowan, including an arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus (Glomus intradices) and an unusual ectomycorrhizal fungus (Cenoccum geophilum). In the symbiotic relationships formed by these fungi and the tree, both the partners benefit through an exchange of nutrients which each organism cannot access directly itself.

A rust fungus ( Gymnosporangium cornutum ) which infects juniper (Juniperus communis) spends its aecial or spore phase on rowan, where it produces galls which take the form of yellowish pustules on the upper surface of the leaves. Rowan is a good host tree for lichens, and is the second best in the UK for Graphidion lichens (those which grow on smooth-barked trees) after hazel (Corylus avellana). Tree lungwort (Lobaria pulmonaria) is common on rowan trunks in areas with a wet climate or constant humidity, while a recently identified lichen (Arthothelium dictyosporum) which is endemic to Scotland occurs mainly on rowan. The foliage is palatable and highly attractive to browsing animals, and red deer will eat it in preference to most other tree species in the Caledonian Forest. Mountain hares (Lepus timidus) eat the leaves, and deer also feed on the bark and stems.

In contrast to many other broadleaved trees, the leaves are not palatable to phytophagous (ie plant-eating) insects, so comparatively few of them are associated with rowan. However, the larvae of several species of leaf-mining moths (Stigmella spp.) make mines in rowan leaves, and the caterpillars of the Welsh wave moth (Venusia cambrica) feed on the leaves. Larvae of the apple fruit moth (Argyresthia conjugella) are frequently found in the berries. A snail (Helix aspersa) has been shown to feed on the leaves, whilst a beetle (Byturus fumatus) feeds on the flowers, often completely eating the stamens. The berries are eaten by a variety of birds in the forest, including chaffinches (Fringilla coelebs) and siskins (Carduelis spinus), while in towns and rural areas blackbirds (Turdus merula) are the main seed dispersers.

Fieldfares (Turdus pilaris) and redwings (Turdus iliacus) time their migrations from Scandinavia to the UK to coincide with the availability of rowan berries, and in good fruit years, flocks of them will descend on the trees as they pass to the south. On their way, they will disperse the seeds, thereby enabling a new generation of young rowans to grow and take their place as a distinctive and beautiful feature of the Caledonian Forest. Alan Watson Featherstone Deforestation Stay connected Sign up to our newsletter and we will send you a monthly update of news and events at Trees for Life Sign up About Trees for Life The core purpose and vision of Trees for Life is to restore the Caledonian Forest and all its constituent species of flora and fauna to the Scottish Highlands. By engaging volunteers to achieve this, we aim to provide a powerful and educational experience that will promote the work of restoration to wider audiences. Through providing a demonstration of the techniques of ecological restoration, we aim to inspire similar projects elsewhere in the UK and around the world.

Tree Lore: Rowan | Order of Bards and Druids Old Celtic: Kair Description Rowan is a small deciduous tree, found high up in the mountains; it is sometimes called ‘The Lady of the Mountain’ (Paterson). Although it prefers the heights, it can grow anywhere and I have seen rowan planted in the lowlands as well (see above picture of Rowan in Glastonbury, England). The shape of the tree resembles an Ash, however it is not related. A member of the Rose family, Rowan is related to Rose, Apple, Hawthorn, Blackthorn, and Cherry, and grows no higher than 30-40 feet. It can live up to two hundred years. The leaves grow in pairs and are long and slender. In May, Rowan blossoms into clusters of little creamy white flowers. The tree berries in autumn with a bright red fruit beloved by birds. The Rowan grows profusely in the Highlands of Scotland, and its’ bright red berry is said to inspire the red color of the tartan plaids. (Paterson) Nutrition The Rowan berry is bitter, but when mixed with sugar or other sweet fruits, is excellent in pies, jelly or jam.

Rowan berries are also made into juice and wine. The berries provide vitamins A and C, carotin, pectin and essential oil, and stimulate the immune system. (Hageneder) Healing Medicinally, Rowan berries are a laxative, and can also be used for sore throats, inflamed tonsils, hoarseness, even diarrhoea. A decoction from the bark is used as an astringent. (Hopman) Folklore The Rowan tree is one of the most sacred trees in Scottish folk tradition. ‘Scottish tradition does not allow the use of the tree’s timber, bark, leaves or flowers, nor the cutting of these, except for sacred purposes under special conditions.’ (Fife) Rowan is one of the trees associated with Saint Brighid, the Celtic patroness of the arts, healing, smithing, spinning and weaving. Spindles and spinning wheels were traditionally made of Rowan in Scotland and Ireland. Rowan trees planted near stone circles in Scotland were especially powerful. Scottish Fairies were said to hold their celebrations within stone circles protected by Rowan trees. Modern interpretations of the Celtic Ogham place Rowan, called Luis, as the sacred tree of February.

Rowan twigs were placed above doorways and barns to protect the inhabitants against misfortune and evil spirits. It was one of the trees sacred to Druids and used for protection against sorcery and evil spirits. The Druids burnt Rowan on funeral pyres, for it also symbolized death and rebirth. The Druid Ovates and Seers burnt Rowan in rites of divination and to invoke spirits, and Druids used Rowan wood in rites of purification. Ancient Bards considered the Rowan the ‘Tree of Bards’, bringing the gift of inspiration. Rowan is one of the nine sacred woods burnt in the Druids’ Beltaine fire. Rowan is also associated with dragons and serpents - sacred Rowans were once guarded by dragons. In America, the Rowan is usually referred to as Mountain Ash. Most sources maintain that the word ‘Rowan’ is derived from the Norse word rune, which means charm or secret, and runa, which is Sanskrit for magician. However according to Elizabeth Pepper, Rowan is a Scottish word, derived from the Gaelic rudha-an, which means ‘the red one’.

Rune staves were often cut from the rowan tree for amulets by the Norse people who invaded Scotland. In the Christian era, the twigs have been used for protection against witches, sorcery, negative magic and the Evil Eye. Twigs tied in a cross with red thread are affixed to doors and barns to keep the inhabitants and livestock from being enchanted, saying this charm, ‘Rowan tree and red thread, will put witches to their speed’ . Walking sticks made of rowan are used to protect the user from the spirits of the woods. Rowan is also called the Witch Tree, or Wicken Tree, and can be used for divining precious metals, just as hazel can divine water. Witches used Rowan to increase their psychic powers, for spells of healing, success, protection, and often used the wood for their magic wands. History Practicing folk magic was a sign of witchcraft to the 17th Century Scots. Margaret Barclay was brought to trial for witchcraft in Ayrshire, Scotland, in 1618. The damning evidence found in her possession was a Rowan charm – a Rowan twig tied with red thread for protection.

(Pepper) ________________________________________ Gaelic Dictionary by Malcolm MacLennan, Acair and Mercat Press Publishers, Edinburg, 1979 Warriors and Guardians: Native Highland Trees by Hugh Fife, Argyll Publishing, 1994 The Spirit of the Trees, Science, Symbiosis and Inspiration, by Fred Hageneder, Floris Books, Edinburgh, 2000 The Heritage of Trees, History, Culture and Symbolism, by Fred Hageneder, Floris Books, Edinburgh, 2001 Tree Wisdom, The Definitive Guidebook, by Jacqueline Memory Paterson, Thorsons Publishing, San Francisco, 1996 The Wisdom of Trees, by Jane Gifford, Sterling Publishing, New York, 2001 Celtic Tree Mysteries, Secrets of the Ogham, by Steve Blamires, Llewelyn Publications, St. Paul, 1997 The Book of Ogham, the Celtic Tree Oracle, by Edred Thorsson, Llewelyn Publications, St.

Paul, 1992 Ogham, the Celtic Oracle of the Trees, by Paul Rhys Mountfort, Destiny Books, Rochester, Vermont, 2001 Celtic Tree Magic, by Elizabeth Pepper, The Witches Almanac, Ltd., Rhode Island, 1996 Tree Medicine, Tree Magic, by Ellen Evert Hopman, Phoenix Publishing, Custer, WA, 1991 Rowan - MountaIn Ash Tree | All About Rowan - MountaIn Ash Trees Food, drink, medicine, furniture Rowan-Mountain Ash Trees Mountain Ash or Rowan trees are a popular ornamental species derived from the genus Pyrus. The trees are referred to by both names, though the Mountain Ash moniker is used primarily in North America, while Rowan is the preferred name in Europe. Regardless of what you call the garden tree, its appearance remains the same. The Mountain Ash is an attractive specimen which bears pretty flowers and bright decorative fruit. Appearance of the Tree Mountain Ash Leaves The Mountain Ash is not part of the Ash tree family at all. It actually belongs to the same species as the rose bush, the Rosaceae.

Most Mountain Ashes are shaped like shrubs, though some have a more traditional tree-like form and can grow to 50 feet tall. The tree features several other noteworthy characteristics, including: Leaves: Compound with up to 15 tiny leaflets. The pinnate are relatively long, measuring up to nine inches on some types. The leaves are dark green in the spring and summer, but change to a spectacular mix of yellow, red and orange in the fall. Typically the leaves are paler on their underside. Bark: Light grayish bark with raised dots. The bark turns brown-gray as the tree matures. Flowers: Large clusters of small white flowers blossom in the spring. Each bloom yields five petals. Fruit: Bright orange-red berries form a cluster in late summer and can be harvested in the fall. Depending on the type of tree, the berries can range in color, including white, yellow, pink, peach, bright orange or red. The berries are edible, but are extremely acidic and do not have a pleasant taste. The small tree is a great addition to home landscapes and can survive more than 100 years if well cared for.

Rowan-Mountain Ash Tree Types European Mountain Ash Mountain Ash trees are not related to true Ash trees which belong to the genus Fraxinus. Rather, the small deciduous specimens feature two main species: European Mountain Ash: This type of Mountain Ash bears more resemblance to a traditional tree. It is not as shrubby as the North American version, though it still bears the iconic bright fruit and delicate creamy white flowers. North American Mountain Ash: This version of the Mountain Ash grows to a more manageable height for the average homeowner looking to add the tree as a landscaping specimen. The North American Mountain Ash does not tolerate warm climates. The tree is known for its fiery red foliage in the fall and makes for a stunning addition to a suburban back yard. White Beam Mountain Ash: This Mountain Ash tree is commonly found in cooler climates. It differs from its cousins, the European and North American Mountain Ash trees, in that its leaves are not compound and the undersides are covered with white felt-like hairs. The Many Looks of the Rowan-Mountain Ash Tree Mountain Ash Tree Minnesota Wisconsin In North America, the tree prefers colder climates, moist soil and full sun.

It is especially prevalent in the Pacific Northwest where it is considered a top pick among landscapers who can cultivate the tree with much success given the region's temperate conditions. Popular Uses Ripe Mountain Ash Berries In addition to adding a splash of color to green spaces, the Mountain Ash tree serves a number of other practical purposes such as: Food: Eating the Mountain Ash's berries raw is an unpleasant experience. However, when cooked, they are delicious in jams, pies, and wine. Drink: In Europe the berries of the Rowan tree were, at one time, used to create a distilled spirit most similar to a beer. Medicine: Mountain Ash berries contain high levels of Vitamin C. Some cultures used to squeeze the juice from the berries, and drink it to prevent scurvy. Today, the berries are placed in tea and consumed to treat urinary tract infections and diarrhea. In some cases, the fruit juices are extracted and administered intravenously to treat glaucoma. Centuries ago, the bark from the tree was used as a blood cleanser. Wood: Timber from the Mountain Ash is quite durable and is used to make tool handles, walking sticks, furniture, planks and beams.

The Mountain Ash's large rounded canopy is also a popular home for birds that enjoy snacking on the tree's berries which grow in chunky clusters. Interesting Facts Mature Mountain Ash The Mountain Ash played a pivotal role in European mythology. The tree was thought to have magical powers, including the ability to protect houses and ships from lightening strikes. In some Celtic cultures, the Mountain Ash is referred to as the "Traveler's Tree" because it was thought to protect people from getting lost. Other interesting facts associated with the tree include: In Ancient England, legend had it that Satan hung his mother from the branch of a Mountain Ash tree. Centuries ago magic wands were fashioned from Mountain Ash twigs. In parts of Europe, wood from the Mountain Ash tree would be erected near graves to keep the dead from haunting. In Newfoundland, residents would predict the weather based on how many berries were harvested in a season. A large crop would mean a hard winter was approaching. In Finland, some believed that if the Mountain Ash experienced an exceptional bloom, the rye harvest would be plentiful. Meanwhile, in Sweden, it was thought that if the Mountain Ash lost color prematurely, the fall and winter would bring illness.

Rowan-Mountain Ash Diseases Healthy Mountain Ash trees are gorgeous specimens that can help brighten up even the most unattractive yards. However, the species is not immune to diseases that can rob it of its beauty and charm. Among the most common infections that afflict the Mountain Ash tree include: Cytospora Canker: This fungal disease targets the tree's trunk and branches by peppering it with brown, irregular shaped cankers. The ugly pimple-like masses can ooze and spread throughout the Mountain Ash. In severe case, the disease can kill the tree. Fire Blight: This infection kills the tree's flowers and leaves. Symptoms include black leaves, brown flower clusters and spores that ooze slime and infect the tree's branches. Leaf Spot: This shows as irregular, brown spots on leaves. If left untreated, tiny, black spores will form as well. Advance cases also cause leaves to drop prematurely. Mountain Ash is also susceptible to sawflies which can defoliate the tree within a few days.

Rowan-Mountain Ash Care Mountain Ash Care At first glance, Mountain Ash trees look like they're high maintenance saplings, but even if you have just the slightest green thumb you shouldn't have a problem getting the tree to prosper on your property. These tips will help you get started: Mountain Ash trees prefer full sun. Avoid planting the tree in the shade of a large building or near trees that tower over it. If the tree is robbed of sunlight, its flower and fruit production will be reduced. The tree grows better in slightly moist, acidic soil. Do not over water the Mountain Ash. Most Mountain Ash types do not need to be fertilized, though if your soil lacks nutrients you could add some fertilizer to the base of a young tree. Pruning is essential with Mountain Ash trees as it needs to be trained to maintain a single trunk. If regular maintenance is not done, the tree will become multi-stemmed over time. Finally, Mountain Ash doesn't fare well when exposed to pollution, road salt and animals that like to gnaw on tree bark. As such, it's not a good idea to plant the tree along a busy street or in an urban environment with contaminated air.

Copyright © 2012 LoveToKnow Corp., All Rights Reserved Rowan Berry Rowan Berry Menï¿½ Most people believe, that Rowan Berries are poisonous. That is good for those, who know, that cooked Rowan Berries are not poisonous and that marmelade made of them is very delicious, because they can find lots of Rowan Berries that nobody wants to harvest (exept birds). Rowan Berries have healing effects on the digestion, the liver and the lung. This is a secret, that is unknown even by the Rowan Berry marmelade fans. Medicinal Uses European Mountain Ash, Mountain Ash, Quickbeam, Rowan, Rowan Tree, Rowanberry, Witchwood Used Parts: Sorbitol, Sorbic acid, Bitter essence, Tannic essence, Tannic acid, Parasorbic acid, Pectin, Mucous Time to collect: July until October Methods The fruits of the Rowantree can be used as Juice, Jelly or Marmelade. You can also use the dried berries as tea. Cooking the fruits helps to ally the strong taste of the Rowan Berries. There are different kinds of Rowan Trees.

Some have very bitter fruits others have fruit that are just a little bit bitter. The softer ones are often cultivated by people in cities. The bitter essences of the Rowan Berry help against problems of the digestive system especially the gall production. You can also use the Rowan Berry to regulate the digestion because it helps against diarrhea and constipation as well. The Rowan Berry is also good to treat problems of the breathing system. For this use it's best to serve freshly pressend juice with honey. When vitamin C is missing, Rowan Berry can give you lots of vitamin C. Whether the raw Rowan berries are poisonous is not so clear. Maybe in high doses they are a little bit poisonous. But nobody would eat lots of raw Rowan berries, because they taste very strong, even the mild ones. To eat some raw Rowan Berries is no problem, but eating lots of them without beeing cooked and sweetened is just tasting too bad. We have prepared a recipe for cooking a Rowan Berry marmelade with pictures that illustrate the cooking-process. Before you collect lots of Rowanberries it is important to taste one berry whether it is very bitter or just a little bit bitter. For making marmelade only take the mild ones.

They are still bitter enough. Plant description Rowan Berry is at home in Europe. As Rowan Berry doesn't need very good ground and climate, you can find it even on mountains, where no other trees are growing. But you can find it also in cities, parks and beside roads. Rowan Berry can become up to ten meters high. It is a small tree. The leaves look like the leaves of Ash, what gave the name "Mountain Ash" to the Rowan Tree. There are several leaves in a row growing opposite to each other. From may to june the flowers are blossoming. They are white and small. The red fruits are ripening in from july to october. They are small like peas and taste more or less bitter. Identify and grow Rowan or Mountain Ash trees sorbus scalaris sorbus wilfordii Click here to go to our page which has pictures and short descriptions of the above species of Rowan trees. LIFECYCLE OF A ROWAN TREE All Rowan trees are deciduous (shed their leaves in winter) and the dark green leaves first appear in April. This is followed by masses of small white flowers a month or so later in mid to late May.

The leaves have a very sweet scent which attracts lots of pollinating insects. The pollinated flowers turn into berries with seeds in them. Rowan trees start to produce seeds when they are about 15 years old. By late August the berries will have ripened and contain up to eight seeds per berry. Birds love to eat the vitamin C rich berries and they spread them wide and far in their droppings. It's interesting to note that the berries of Rowan trees have a laxative effect thus encouraging the birds to drop the seeds before their digestive system can cause much damage. The seeds of Rowan trees are tough and they require stratification (a period of cold) to break down the coating. Some seeds will germinate the next spring but in come cases the seeds will take two or even three years to germinate. Depending on soil and weather conditions, Rowan trees will have an expected lifespan of 80 years, over 100 years if the conditions are correct. GROWING CONDITIONS FOR ROWAN TREES To determine the ideal growing conditions for Rowan trees consider their natural environment. First temperature - Rowan trees are extremely hardy and cope with extremes of cold very well. A coldish winter is good for them.

So anywhere in northern and central Europe will suit them. Most areas of Canada and northern and central North America will also provide good weather conditions. The seed of Rowan trees is dropped by birds from the branches of other trees, commonly oaks. The tree then grows in part shady conditions often under the canopy of other larger trees. Therefore, they prefer a part shady position in the garden. Soil conditions should mimic those found in forests, acidic and peaty soil with good drainage is the ideal soil. Having outlined the ideal conditions, Rowan trees are very tolerant of most conditions and will withstand windy areas very well. Rowan tree require no pruning but if you want a multi-stemmed specimen then simply prune it to the height where you want the multiple stem to appear. These trees are absolutely rock solid and there is very little you will ever do which might kill them. PESTS AND DISEASE Rowan trees are very strong growing trees and unlikely to suffer from many pests and diseases. Their leaves are not eaten by insects thereby limiting the transmission of disease. Their chief pest is deer, they love the leaves of Rowan trees, above those of almost all other plants. Other less likely pests and diseases include include leaf-mining moths and the apple fruit moth.

Lichen grows on the bark but rarely causes a problem. Occasionally canker can cause problems. WHAT IS EDIBLE? The fruit of the Rowan tree is not poisonous but unless it is over-ripe it has an extremely bitter taste. Let it ripen well though and it becomes much sweeter. ROWAN TREE MYTHOLOGY There's lots of mythology around Rowan trees, an indication that they have been well regarded for thousands of years. Norse mythology has it that God made woman from the wood of the Rowan tree. The Greek believed that the goddess of youth, Hebe fed the other gods with a magic nectar from her cup which gave them everlasting life. Hebe's cup of nectar was stolen by demons. The Gods decided to send an eagle in search of the demons and to return the cup to Hebe. The demons and the eagle fought each other and in the battle drops of blood and eagle feathers fell to the ground and grew into Rowan trees. The red drops of blood represents the red berries and the eagles feathers represent the leaves of the Rowan tree. If you look at the base of a Rowan tree berry you will often see a five pointed star on the skin.

In ancient times the five pointed star was a symbol of protection. Combine this with the deep red of the mature berries, which was the colour indicating protection, then it's clear to understand why the Rowan tree was believed to protect. Rowan Tree | Merlin Wiki | Fandom powered by Wikia It was also the clue that led the player to find out Morgana 's true whereabouts between Series 2 and Series 3 on the interactive game The Quest for Morgana , featuring Katie McGrath . The Fomorroh medallion resembles the sacred Rowan Tree, perhaps alluding to a connection between the two. Mythology Edit "Greek mythology tells of how Hebe the goddess of youth, dispensed rejuvenating ambrosia to the gods from her magical chalice. When, through carelessness, she lost this cup to demons, the gods sent an eagle to recover the cup. The feathers and drops of blood which the eagle shed in the ensuing fight with the demons fell to earth, where each of them turned into a rowan tree.

Hence the rowan derived the shape of its leaves from the eagle's feathers and the appearance of its berries from the droplets of blood." [1 ] "In Norse mythology as the tree from which the first woman was made, (the first man being made from the ash tree). It was said to have saved the life of the god Thor by bending over a fast flowing river in the Underworld in which Thor was being swept away, and helping him back to the shore." [1 ] "In Celtic legend, it is always connected with either Druids or other practitioners of magic." [2 ] "Rowan is also used during rites of the 2nd moon - the moon of vision for rites of knowledge and divination. If the branches are gathered at Beltane (May Day) they can be tied with red yarn hung above openings to protect your house. The Scots would plant rowan near their houses to protect from lightning and evil. The berries and leaves are dried and burned to invoke/banish spirits, fairies, elements, and the Earth Mother. Rowan wood was burned by druids of opposing armies to summon spirits-to take part of battle.

The Silver Branch that is often carried in Druid rites and ceremonies, is usually made of Rowan, to celebrate and honour the Goddess." [2 ] "The sorb apple, fruit of the rowan, symbolises corruption and sweetness. It is not edible until it rots to a purplish colour. ... The berries have a tiny pentagram on them. The pentagram is the ancient symbol of protection. The pentagram shape is one of the reason's why it has been called the Witch Tree. The Rowan tree indicates protection and control of the senses from enchantment and possesses the power of the psychic, healing, power, success, and protection. If carried, Rowan wood will increase one's psychic powers. Branches of Mountain Ash often were used in dowsing rods and magical wands. Leaves and berries are added to divination incense for better scrying. Rowan berries and bark are added to healing and health baths, sachets, and also in power, success, and luck sachets. Carrying the berries/bark aids in recuperation.

If two twigs are tied together with red thread as a cross, one would possess a protection amulet." [2 ] "The symbolism and Celtic meaning of the rowan tree deals with: Power, Vision, Balance, Healing, Mystery, Connection, Protection, Divination, [and] Transformation" [3 ] "More evidence of this protective energy in the white flowers of the rowan. Beautiful, bold, and crisp, these white flowers are symbolic of cleansing and safekeeping." [3 ] "Rowan is also used during rites of the 2nd moon - the moon of vision for rites of knowledge and divination. If the branches are gathered at Beltane (May Day) they can be tied with red yarn hung above openings to protect your house. The Scots would plant rowan near their houses to protect from lightning and evil. The berries and leaves are dried and burned to invoke/banish spirits, fairies, elements, and the Earth Mother. Rowan wood was burned by druids of opposing armies to summon spirits-to take part of battle. The Silver Branch that is often carried in Druid rites and ceremonies, is usually made of Rowan, to celebrate and honor the Goddess." [2 ] Other Interesting Facts

Question: What colour are the berries from the rowan tree?
Answer: Red