Tree Correspondences

I have yet to meet anyone who has spent any time in Paganism without coming to love, admire and adore the properties of Nature in ever greater depth.  Within that, as you come to understand, appreciate and work with the properties of trees, all from the simplest soul to the highest adept cannot fail to hold trees in particular reverence.  Although the deeper understanding of the properties of trees has been lost to everyday folk nowadays, you need only watch the news when a section of woodland is to be cut down to make way for a road to see the passion people still feel for these elders of our land.  People are literally willing to risk their lives to save them.  And that is no chance occurrence...

To this end, I have compiled this section to help give you a start in gaining a deeper understanding of the properties and correspondences within each tree.  I have chosen to stick with the corresponding trees to the thirteen lunar months of the Druidic calendar, but these are also the main native trees to our land, so should provide you with a strong foundation upon which to build should you so desire.

As with the whole of this site, I am dealing with the information particularly relevant to those living in Great Britain, although the calendar is applicable to anyone living in the Northern Hemisphere.  However, if you are living in the Southern Hemisphere and wish to know the correct dates for this area, please don't hesitate to contact me by clicking on the image below.

I have elected to start with Birch, as it corresponds to Yule; the first festival after the new year at Samhaine.  Thereafter, they run in order as they fall on the wheel of the year.  Please note that there are regional variations upon the basic theme, and I alone have three different variations in my possession!  However, I have elected to go with the version which makes most sense to me; both intellectually and intuitively.

For each tree, I have given you a start with the basic information.  However, as with all the work in here, it is up to you to take this further and learn about the tree for yourself.  Please see the section on working with trees to help guide you in this work.

Birch - 24 Dec to 20 Jan

Also Known As
Silver Birch, Lady of the Woods.

Ogham Letter & Name
B - Beith

Celtic Symbol
The White Stag

Energy and Associations
The elements of Earth, Air and Water.  Mysteries of the Maiden Goddess, new starts, overcoming difficulties, healing.

Birth Moon Properties
Those born under the Birch Moon have resolve, faith in themselves and the ability to conceive new projects and "earth" them in good foundations.  Their potential is tremendous, and they posses clarity of purpose and often a visionary quality which enables them to clearly envision objectives and outcomes.  They should be wary, however, of confusing being practical with being realistic, as the two are not the same and their lack of realism can lead to problems.  Those born under this Moon should meditate upon it to help develop their full potential.

Medicinal/Herbal Properties:
Bark - Collected in late summer, placing the fresh, wet side of the bark against the skin will ease muscle pain.  Take care not to ring the tree (not to take the bark off right the way round), or the tree will die.
Leaf - Collected in late spring/early summer, the leaves are a diuretic, antiseptic and tonic.  An infusion of the leaves is an effective remedy for cystitis and other urinary system infections, together with removing excess fluid from the body.  It may also be used for rheumatism and mild arthritic pain.
Sap - Birch water can be used to treat rheumatism, spots, scurf and acne, but do not tap the tree for more than one pint or two days, whichever is the sooner.

Rowan - 21 Jan to 17 Feb.

Also Known As
Witchwood, Mountain Ash, Lady of the Mountain, Quicken Tree, Quickbeam.

Ogham Letter & Name
L - Luis

Celtic Symbol
The Green Dragon

Energy & Associations
The elements of Air and Fire.  Protection, life force, intuition.  Protection against enchantment, guardian of the earth energies, healing, success, control, psychism, the energy of the sun.

Birth Moon Properties
Those born in the Rowan Moon have the ability to develop visionary powers, and the often their sense of self as a unique individual is very strong.  Often ahead of their time, they can appear detached, but are generally passionate about their principles and especially angered by prejudice or bigotry.  Their thoughts are usually crystal clear and free of pre-conditioning.  Those born under this Moon should use the influence of the Rowan to strengthen their vision, and also to connect them with the warmth of human feelings; helping make their ideas relevant to the society in which they live.

Medicinal/Herbal Properties:
Berry - Collected in October, the juice of the berries is mildly laxative and also makes an effective gargle for sore throats and hoarseness.  However, when made into jam, the fruit becomes astringent, and good for mild diarrhoea.

Ash - 18 Feb to 17 Mar

Also Known As
Husbandry Tree, Heder (in Lincolnshire), Sister, Granny, Venus of the Woods.

Ogham Letter & Name
N - Nuin

Celtic Symbol
Sea horse or Trident.

Energy & Associations
The elements of Air and Water.  Marriage of opposites, linking inner and outer worlds, mental clarity.

Birth Moon Properties
Those born under the Ash Moon have a dual aspect to their nature, and can appear somewhat enigmatic.  They don't just see both sides; invariably they are both sides!  Often appearing naive, in truth it is almost impossible to shock them, as they have a deep understanding of the seamy side of humanity.  Many nuances of human nature are contained within them, but attempts to be consistent will more likely end up ironing out their sensibilities.  Artistic and yet pragmatic, sensitive and yet detached, kind and yet cruel, their great gift is their ability for understanding and compassion, although they should learn to moderate this in order to protect themselves.  Those born under this Moon should use the energy of the Ash to enable them to be practical and maintain a unity, even while appreciating diversity.

Medicinal/Herbal Properties:
Bark - The wood and seeds are considered to posses an aphrodisiac quality.
Leaf - Infusions of the leaves are said to confer longevity.  They can also be used as a cure for rheumatism, and act as a laxative.

Alder - 18 Mar to 14 Apr

Also Known As
Aller, Howler.

Ogham Letter & Name
F - Fearn

Celtic Symbol
Hawk or Pentacle.

Energy & Associations
The elements of Water and Air.  Prophecy, divination, protection, balancing male and female aspects.

Birth Moon Properties
Those born under the Alder Moon have something of a heroic quality to them, and are likely to make their own way in life as a leader and pioneer.  They rarely lack courage, but can be restless and impatient, which may prevent them from seeing potential pitfalls in their path.  Committed and sincere on the whole, they are loyal and protective friends to those they care for, although they rarely rely on another to fight their own battles.  However, they don't always stop to think or to cultivate wisdom and circumspection.  Those born under this moon should use the energies of the Alder to attain perspective, far sightedness, and the vibrancy of the spirit.

Medicinal/Herbal Properties:
Bark - When bathed in, a decoction of the bark can ease inflammation.
Leaf - Alder leaves are cooling and soothing when used as a poultice to reduce swellings.  The fresh leaves may be placed inside your shoes to soothe tired feet, and to help keep cool feet when travelling long distances.

Willow - 15 Apr to 12 May

Also Known As
Witches' Aspirin, Osier, Pussy Willow, Sally, Withy, Tree of Enchantment.

Ogham Letter & Name
S - Saille

Celtic Symbol
The Sea Serpent.

Energy & Associations
The element of Water.  Female, emotions, the Moon, dowsing, psychic abilities, magic, love, healing, fertility, protection.

Birth Moon Properties
Those born under the Willow Moon will be close to the essence of nature; the magic of the earth is in their bones, although they are unlikely to appear particularly mystical as a person, for the instinctual will be something they take for granted.  They feel emotional pain deeply, and can seem stubborn and moody; finding it hard to express their emotions.  With an excellent memory, they may also have access to what is termed "race memory"; the memories of their ancestors.  Those born under this Moon should use the energy of the Willow to reconnect to the rhythms of life, enabling them to adjust and soothe when feeling unsettled.

Medicinal/Herbal Properties
Bark - Aspirin is derived from the willow.  Collected in Spring (taking care not to ring the tree), a drink made from the bark of the White Willow can ease rheumatism, fever, inflammation and pain.  Externally, it can be used for sores, wounds and burns, and decoctions can help relieve diarrhoea.
Leaf - The leaves are a tonic, astringent and anti periodic, together with helping an individual to release emotional pain.  Culpeper also writes of the Black Willow that "the leaves bruised and boiled in wine stay the heat of lust in man or women, and quite extinguish it, if it be long used"

Hawthorn - 13 May to 9 Jun

Also Known As
Whitethorn, May, Bread and Cheese Tree.

Ogham Letter & Name
H - Huathe

Celtic Symbol
The Chalice.

Energy & Associations
The elements of Fire and Earth.  Access to the Otherworld, fertility, opening the heart, guardian, cleansing, fulfilment..

Birth Moon Properties
Those born under the Hawthorn Moon tend to be filled with new ideas and creativity.  Their talents tend to be many and varied, and they have a positive attitude towards coping with life.  Often great strategists, they tend to easily sense the vulnerable points of their opponents.  Their nature is generally sensual, and they often posses a talent for the performing arts.  Although enthusiastic, their impulsive nature can make them inconstant in their relationships.  Those born under this moon should use the energy of the Hawthorn to find a depth and fulfilment in their sensuality to help enrich and steady their relationships, and to cleanse them; enabling them to use their gifts with energy and practicality.

Medicinal/Herbal Properties
Berry - Collected in September-October, the berries provide one of the best tonic remedies for the heart and circulatory system, acting in a normalizing way upon the heart by either stimulating or depressing it's activity, depending on the need.  As a long term treatment, they may also be used for heart weakness, palpitations, high blood pressure and angina.  Drink an infusion daily to combat stress, pressure at work, or for any nervous condition.  This is also an excellent tonic in old age.
Blossom - The flowers should be collected in full bloom, dried quickly and stored in an airtight jar fresh each year.  An infusion of the flowers has a beneficial effect on the heart and circulation, and should be taken over a long period of time as the action is very gradual.
Leaf - Hawthorn leaves are said to be as nourishing as bread and cheese, and also contain chemicals which are anti-spasmodic and diuretic.  The young leaves  can be picked and eaten as a tonic in salads.  They should be picked in April, or the buds can be picked earlier, and have a pleasant nutty taste.  The leaves can be used in combination with digitalis to treat heart problems.  Hawthorn is also good for palpitations, menopausal and circulatory problems.  A poultice of the pulped leaves or fruits has strong drawing properties, and can be used on embedded thorns, splinters, stings, etc.

Oak - 10 Jun to 7 Jul

Also Known As
Jove's Nuts, Father of Trees, King of Trees, King of the Forest.

Ogham Letter & Name
D - Duir

Celtic Symbol
White Horse or Golden Wheel.

Energy & Associations
The elements of Fire, Earth, and sometimes Air.  Entrance to mysteries, keeper of mysteries, witness of vows/oaths, health, strength, courage, inner spiritual resource, protection.

Birth Moon Properties
Those born under the Oak Moon are blessed with a broad vision, and an optimistic, buoyant personality.  Their positive and truthful nature often leads them to take risks in the constant belief that the best will happen... and it often does!  Despite having a noble air with strong leadership qualities, a generous nature and good survival instincts, they do tend to be somewhat indiscreet and tend to make commitments they cannot fulfil.  Those born under this Moon should use the Oak to help ground them within the earth, and to connect with the Otherworld realms.  This will help them to see how best to use their energies, and where to commit themselves, to avoid giving too much of themselves.

Medicinal/Herbal Properties
Bark - Oak bark is used as an antiseptic tonic and astringent.  It is effective for the treatment of diarrhoea, dysentery, haemorrhoids (as an enema), tonsillitis, pharyngitis and laryngitis.  Collect the bark in April or May, taking care only to take small patches and never to ring the tree.
Blossom - A distilled water from the flower buds is traditionally used to cleanse the internal body.
Leaf - The bruised leaves can be placed on wounds to ease inflammation.

Holly - 8 Jul to 4 Aug

Also Known As
Holme, Hulm, Holme Chase, Hulver Bush, Aunt Mary's Tree, Hollin, Poisonberry.

Ogham Letter & Name
T - Tinne

Celtic Symbol
Flaming Spear and The Unicorn.

Energy & Associations
The element of Fire.  Everlasting life, balance, direction, protection, dream magic, the hidden/dark side of the God, courage, clarity of mind and wisdom.  Also linked to Midwinter, and the Goddess as Crone and Wise woman.

Birth Moon Properties
Those born under the Holly Moon may be cautious and circumspect, protective of themselves and others. They are generally reliable, down-to-earth and tenacious, although they have the propensity to dream, and the strength to turn dreams to reality.  They are often supportive and have a strong sense of roots and family - both personal and collective - together with a profound connection with the earth.  Those born under this Moon should use holly to protect themselves on all levels, including from their own unreasonable expectations.

Medicinal/Herbal Properties
Leaves - Holly berries are poisonous, and should not be taken, but the leaves can be used in an infusion to treat catarrh, 'flu, pneumonia a, rheumatism and fever.  A decoction of the leaves is also an effective astringent, diuretic and expectorant.

Hazel - 5 Aug to 1 Sep

Also Known As
Cobnut, Poet's Tree.

Ogham Letter & Name
C - Coll

Celtic Symbol
The Rainbow Salmon.

Energy & Associations
The elements of Water and Air.  Inspiration, divination, inner guidance, dowsing, intuition, finding the hidden and acquiring wisdom, developing individuality.

Birth Moon Properties
Those born under the Hazel Moon are quick thinking and clever, with the gift of self-expression.  Organized, and seeking always to know all details of a matter, they can tend to be inquisitive.  This can lead them to pry a little, although they also have the gift of teaching others what they have learnt.  Those born under this Moon should use Hazel to deepen their knowledge to wisdom, and enable them to use what they know creatively.

Medicinal/Herbal Properties
Fruit - The hazelnut provides a particularly rich source of protein, and should be gathered from the hedgerows during September and stored in their shells in a dry place.

Apple - 2 Sep to 29 Sep

Ogham Letter & Name
Q - Quert

Celtic Symbol
The White Swan.

Energy & Associations
The element of Water.  Love, healing, cleansing, foundation, destiny, inspiration.

Birth Moon Properties
Those born under the Apple Moon tend to have a sensual streak, together with an instinctual knowledge of the earth.  At the same time, they often appear cool and self-possessed, with the ability to be efficient and organized.  They are also often in possession of the gift of creating harmony and balance, and of bringing order and beauty into life.  Those born under this Moon should use the energy of the Apple tree to maintain their connection with the joys and beauty of life, and to enhance their appreciation of the cycles of life.

Medicinal/Herbal Properties
The apple tree contains untold uses, including many therapeutic qualities that are good for infections, constipation, rheumatism, anaemia, bronchitis, and many other conditions.  The apple Bah Flower Remedy is effective also used externally to purify wounds if the patient has reason to believe that some poison has entered which needs to be drawn out.

Ivy - 30 Sep to 27 Oct

Ogham Letter & Name
G - Gort

Celtic Symbol
The Butterfly.

Energy & Associations
The element of Water.  Hope, positive perception, immortality, eternal love, the blessings of strength, revelry, attachment, fidelity, the male trinity.

Birth Moon Properties
Those born under the Ivy Moon tend to have great staying power, and a diverse range of talents which lends to them a unique and interesting personality.  Often artistic and radical, they have the ability to project an aura of success and confidence, whatever their circumstances.  Rather than avoiding disputes, their tendency to be indecisive or inconstant often ends up involving them in them.  Those born under this Moon should use the energy of Ivy to enable them to hold their sense of purpose; to inspire them to steadily climb, or simply "hang on in there".

Medicinal/Herbal Properties
Leaf - Ivy can be bandaged on corns to ease them, and the leaves soaked in rosewater and placed on the temples are said to ease a stubborn headache.  However, remember that all parts of the plant are poisonous and should no be taken internally.

Yew - 28 Oct to 24 Nov

Ogham Letter & Name
I - Ioho/Ido

Celtic Symbol
The Stone or The White Hound

Energy & Associations
The element of Earth.  Death and rebirth, contact with the past, the door of rebirth, rest between lives, divination, dowsing, bow-making, the ancestors.

Birth Moon Properties
Those born under the Yew Moon tend to be passionate, powerful people, who doesn't do things by halves.  Those they meet will either be friends or enemies for life, and their lives maybe somewhat dramatic.  Born under this Moon, the person should use the Yew to facilitate transformations in their lives, revealing their true feelings to them to enable them to move on, or stand firm, as required.  They are best to endeavour to express themselves through an artistic medium as a way of integrating their emotions.

Medicinal/Herbal Properties
The Yew tree is highly poisonous, although recent studies have prompted the hopes of finding a cancer cure within it.  Sadly, rather than pay a little more and preserve the tree by researching the leaves, the scientists are endangering this sacred tree by collecting what they seek from the bark itself.

Elder - 25 Nov to 23 Dec

Also Known As
Bourtree, Lady Elder, Lady Ellhorn.

Ogham Letter & Name
R - Ruis

Celtic Symbol
The Black Horse or The Raven.

Energy & Associations
The elements of Earth and Water.  Regeneration, the beginning in the end, female mysteries, the cauldron of rebirth, menstruation.

Birth Moon Properties
Those born under an Elder Moon should use the presence of Elder as a grounding and centring influence, to keep themselves on the right track and give relevance to their speculations.  Appearing happy-go-lucky and carefree, those born under this Moon are often lucky, aware of the consequence and significance of all we do, with the potential for great depth of thought and wisdom.  They can, however, be prone to being a little unreliable or overly casual, and may tend to go off at a tangent.

Medicinal/Herbal Properties
Bark - The bark is a diuretic and a strong purgative, while the shoots clear the chest.  It is not advisable to use the bark for children, as it's effect is too strong and may poison them.
Berries - Gathered in August to October, the juice of elderberries works as a diuretic and laxative.  Elderberry wine has long been used as a curative for colds, and should be drunk hot at night to help bring out the fever and/or infection.
Bloom - The flowers are mildly analgesic and can be used to alleviate catarrh, bronchitis, rheumatism, colds and fevers, conjunctivitis, chilblains, constipation and other ills.
Leaf - Elder leaves are collected in June and July, and should be gathered only in fine weather when the dew has been lifted by the sun.  Bruised and worn in a hat, or rubbed on the skin, the leaves will deter flies from settling upon the wearer.  Better still, an infusion of the leaves dabbed onto the skin will also deter mosquitoes, midges and other troublesome flies.  Elder leaf ointment is effective on bruises, sprains, wounds and chilblains.