by Janette Peel

Created on: September 25, 2008

The sacred Celtic calendar trees are rich in mythological history and have inspired many traditions in folklore, from using their wood as divining rods to inheriting wisdom and universal understanding from their seeds, fruits and nuts.

Ten of the Celtic Moon months are governed by a sacred tree. Each tree has its own unique magical associations, sprung from the environmental conditions in which it grows, and from the seeds and fruits it bears.

Birch (24 Dec 20 Jan)

The Celtic calendar starts the New Year with the month of the Birch Moon, signifying a time of renewal.

The Birch is often known as the Lady of the Woods', and signifies new beginnings, an association springing from the fact it is the first tree to grow back after a forest has been burned. The birch also sheds its bark, which suggests further links to renewal, as the old and worn-out is released to make way for the new. Traditionally, couples used to marry by jumping over a birch twig brush to symbolize their new beginning together in life.

Rowan or Mountain Ash (21Jan 17 Feb)

Rowan berries bear the magical pentagram an important symbol in magical traditions.

Due to the conditions in which it grows, the Rowan tree symbolizes tenacity. It is found growing high up on the sides of mountains, often sprouting from tiny crevices in inaccessible spots. The Rowan berry has a tiny five-pointed star or pentagram opposite its stalk. This explains why it was worn, hung in doorways, or planted near houses to offer protection against evil forces.

Ash (18 Feb 17 Mar)

The Ash is thought to hold the key to universal knowledge and understanding through its winged seeds.

The Ash tree is the Tree of Life' and its winged seeds, called keys; represent the key to universal understanding. The tree is also believed to cure warts: prick the tree with a pin; then use the pin to cross the warts three times saying, "Ash tree, ashen tree, pray buy this wart off me", then put the pin back in the tree. Hopefully, the warts will swiftly disappear.

Alder (18 Mar 14 Apr)

The alder was part of the legendary battalion of trees that fought against dark forces.

In Welsh mythology, the alder fought in the front line of the Battle of the Trees', against the Underworld. When cut, its wood turns from white to red as though it is bleeding. Growing near water, the tree has feminine association, yet its links to war also indicate masculinity. The Alder therefore speaks of balancing masculine and feminine.

Willow (15 Apr 12 May)

The willow tree has strong associations

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