The Sacred Rowan tree

Greek Mythology tells of the goddess Hebe, the goddess of youth, dispensing rejuvenating ambrosia to the gods with her magical challis. When through carelessness she lost this cup to the demons, the gods sent an eagle to retrieve the cup. A fight ensued and the eagle shed feathers and drops of blood. These fell to earth where each of them turned into a rowan tree. Hence it is said that the rowan tree derives its leaf shape from the eagle's feathers and the appearance of its berries from the droplets of blood.

The Rowan's bright berries were symbolically associated with these drops of blood. Red is believed to be the most protective colour and is linked to the forces of creation and life. The power of the sacred Rowan tree is further enhanced by the pentagram, an ancient protective symbol, embedded in the bottom of every Rowanberry.

The Rowan Tree has a long, sacred history. Since ancient times people have been planting a Rowan beside their home as in Celtic mythology it’s known as the Tree of Life and symbolises courage, wisdom and protection. “The classic 'old wives' tale' is the one about rowan berries – if the rowan berries are out in force early, then a hard winter is on the way. If that is true then we are in for a long winter as my Rowan Tree is loaded.

Rowan is also known as mountain ash, due to the fact that it grows well at high altitudes and its leaves are similar to those of ash trees.

Rowan berries, however, are dangerous because they contain a specific toxin. They are particularly bad for dogs they can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and excessive salivation, and affected dogs can show significant signs of disease. ... Close monitoring of all dogs to prevent access to inappropriate plants is preferable.

The Rowan's wood is strong and resilient. It makes excellent walking sticks and is well-suited for carving. It was often used for tool handles, spindles and spinning wheels. Druids used the bark and berries to dye the garments worn during lunar ceremonies. The dye colour is black who knew haha.

Well that is some education about the Rowan Tree hope you learned something today.