Celtic Tree Lore      

In ancient times, everything in nature had its meaning, especially trees, and often divination was worked out by using short twigs from each of the trees, thrown down by the person seeking and answer, and being 'read' much as we read Tarot Cards & Runes today.

Trees are very close to my heart personally, and I do indeed have a set  of 'tree runes' that I made my self years ago....

Here is a brief explanation of the traditional meanings of trees.

Yew. Element of earth, the season of Winter, Guardian to the door of rebirth and reincarnation, silence, contemplation, renewal.

Holly. Element of fire, the season of Midwinter, Protection, wisdom and courage, dream magic.

Pine. Element of Air, the season of both Winter & Spring, foresight, births, purification.

Hazel. Element of Air, the seasons of Spring & Autumn, Divination dowsing, individuality, to find that which is hidden.

Blackthorn. Element of fire, the seasons of Spring and late Autumn, cleansing, Karmic issues, rising above troubles, limited choices.

Silver birch. Element of Air & Water, season of Autumn, healing, new beginnings, mysteries.

Apple. Element of Water, all seasons, Healing love, inspiration, destiny, beginnings.

Hawthorn. Element of Fire, season of Spring & Autumn, fertility, cleansing, magic door to ‘other world’ happiness.

Ash. Element of Water, season of Summer, opposites, intelligence, swiftness, clarity, liking outer & inner worlds.

Oak. Element of Earth, season of Summer & Autumn, courage, strength, protection, health, inner strength, door to the greater mysteries.

Elm. Element of Earth, season of Summer & Winter, purification, love, light, wisdom.

Beech. Element of Air & Fire, seasons of Spring, Summer & Autumn, Letting go of old ideas, ancient knowledge, wishes, the past.

Rowan. Element of Fire, season of Spring & Autumn, magic, psychic powers, protection against enchantment, stone circles and of ley lines, success, purity.

Alder. Element of Water, season of Spring & autumn, divination, protection of all, speaking.

Willow. Element of Water, season of Spring & Autumn, beloved of witches, dowsing, night vision, moon tides and magic.

Elder. Element of Earth, season of early Summer & late Autumn, regeneration and the cauldron of re-birth.

Poplar. Element of Air, season of Autumn & Winter, Psychic air gifts, health.