Trees were hugely significant to the ancient Celts. They believed different kinds of trees served different mystical purposes that helped them through their lives.
Based on the ogham alphabet and its association with trees.
Druids believed the Alder tree symbolised the balance between male and female.
Appears in several stories in myths and legends in many cultures. In Celtic mythology it is a symbol of youthfulness and rebirth.
The ancient Irish believed the Ash tree had healing qualities and saw it as one of a trilogy of sacred trees, along with the Oak and the Hawthorn.
It was believed to have the power to communicate with the next world. The Celts also believed that the wood from the tree would protect them from spiritual harm.
The Celts believed the Birch tree had the power to purify and also protect them from spirits and evil fairies.
There was a sinister mythology around the blackthorn tree. It was connected to witches and the goddess of winter.
Sacred to the Celts and they believed it protected them from evil spirits. However, the Christians took a very different view.
The Celts believed that the Gorse tree was a symbol of love and fertility.
The Celts believed it was bad luck to cut the branches of a hawthorn tree as it would disturb the fairies. However, in Britain and other parts of Europe it was associated with love.
Sacred to ancient Celts and it was punishable by death to chop one down. The Romans and Greeks associated it with intelligence.
Covered the hills of Ireland with purple and white colours. It had many practical uses for the Celts and also mystical qualities.
Has played a key role in many cultures. Druids believed it had protective qualities while Christians believe it was part of Jesus’ crown of thorns.
Seen by many cultures as an enemy of the vine tree. The Irish believed it protected them from evil.
The Christmas plant was a considered sacred by the druids and was thought to ward off evil, restore health and bestow fertility.
Has always been used for building things due to its strength. It was also thought to be associated with thunder and lightning.
Very important in Celtic folklore. It is thought to be an introduction to the Ogham calendar and was used by Druid scholars for writing equipment.
Very sacred to the Druid Celts. They believed it symbolised death and buried it with their dead to protect them from evil spirits.
One of the oldest tree species in existence. It symbolises many things including; eternal life, fertility, prosperity and vitality.
Introduced to Ireland by the Romans. The Irish later built vineyards wherever they went in the world.
The Druids used to say that the universe was hatched from two eggs that were nested in the Willow tree. It is a key element of the mythology of a number of cultures.
Associated with longevity and resurrection. It was revered by both the Druids and the Christians.
