The magic of Rowan

Rowan trees are sometimes known as ‘Mountain Ash’ or ‘Lady of the Mountains’ due to their ability to grow higher up mountain sides than any of our other native trees. They grow quite happily in our towns and parks too, but survive, and even thrive in some of our harshest landscapes. They protect and nurture other trees around them in those environments too by improving the fertility of the soil, similar to Birch trees, earning them the title of ‘nurse tree’.

Rowan trees symbolise protection, resilience and adaptability and bringing them into the home for protection is a long standing tradition. Due to them standing high on the top of mountains they have also been connected with magic, intuition and connecting to other realms.

---

Ancient Rowan traditions

Making and hanging Rowan berry garlands around the home is an ancient tradition, believed to protect the space and invite good luck. Berries are gathered and garlands made as we head towards the Autumn months, crossing the threshold to the darker half of the year. Once dried, the garlands keep for years, bringing a rich pop of colour and magic to the home.

How to make a Rowan Berry Garland

Making these garlands is a beautifully mindful process and one you may wish to try. As with any gift from nature, gather the berries gently; they feed so many of our wild friends, so a bunch or two from abundant trees is recommended. Using a natural thread, (we love to use hemp but it has also been traditional to use a red coloured cord) pierce the berries with a needle through the middle and thread it on to your string. We like to add a knot between each berry and loops on each end of the garland so that they are easy to hang up. Hang up to dry in a warm, airy place away from direct sunlight. The berries will harden and the colour gets richer as they dry.

---

Rowan tree pendants

As always, we would love to hear about your own experiences with Rowan trees or whether you have a go at making a garland.

You can find out more about our Wild Jewellery here.

Warmest wishes,
Nic

---

P.s If you would like to receive our posts straight to your inbox, add your email below.