Rowan

Rowan

The rowan is native throughout much of Europe, Asia and North Africa in light or open woodland. It is also known as Mountain ash because its foliage is similar to that of ash, but it tends to grow higher up the mountain slopes than any other native tree, apart from the juniper and some small willows.
The attractive small white flowers are borne in May.

The handsome scarlet fruits in early autumn are a major source of food for birds such as blackbirds and bullfinches which, in turn, act as a seed dispersal agent for the tree.

The tree first fruits at age 10 and is a very prolific producer from 15 onwards, either annually or every other year.

Rowan wood is very similar to apple. It was traditionally used for tool handles and cartwheels, and is sometimes used for turnery, furniture and engraving nowadays.

The berries were once made into a jelly which was served with game. Being rich in vitamin C, they were once made into a drink to prevent scurvy.

The rowan has been connected with witchcraft from ancient times. Its name is believed to derive from the Norse word meaning a charm.

Trees were often planted in churchyards and outside houses to ward off witches and spirits, especially the dead.
Above all, it was regarded as a sovereign protector of milk.

On May Day, a spray of rowan leaves was hung over the doors to repel evil; wells were dressed with this tree to keep witches away.