Alder

In Ireland it is said to be unlucky to pass an Alder - possibly because many of these trees grow in swampy ground!

Apple

The pips of the Crab Apple, when thrown into a fire may predict the extent of love. If the pip does not explode this is said to indicate indifference, whilst an exploding pip indicates true love.

It is said to be unlucky to bring May blossom into the house as this is often thought to be one of the homes of fairies.

If a farmer could see the sun shine through the branches of an apple tree on Christmas Day, this could be taken as a sign that the following summer would provide a good yield of crops. By giving toast to the tree, the farmer could ensure this omen would come true. However, the toast was not the raising of a glass as you might expect, instead it was a slice of toasted bread.

Ash

Since ancient times, many people have believed that man was born from the branches and flesh of the Ash tree.

If the winged seeds of an Ash tree do not appear, it was seen as sign that the reigning monarch would die in that same year.

Isle of Man folklore suggests that the Ash protects spring water purity. In Sussex and Hampshire, children would pocket ash twigs on Ash Wednesday, stamping on the feet of those who forgot (definitely luckier if you had twigs in your pocket). Some believe the keys bring good luck and ward off witchcraft.

Women who placed an Ash leaf in their left shoe would immediately meet their future husband.

If a person found an ash leaf without searching for one, they could ensure good fortune by wearing it openly for all to see.

Aspen

Believed to be the tree on which Christ was crucified, the Aspen was considered to be cursed and trembles continuously in fear of its future.

Birch

The Birch is thought to be a symbol of fertility and guards against evil spirits. Life-giving properties are another of its possible attributes, with branches hung over doors in Scotland on Midsummer Eve and similarly used on Rogation Day.

Box

Box was used in memory of the dead, being carried and then dropped into graves by mourners at funerals in Lancashire.

Hazel

Used as a rod for water divining, the Hazel is considered to ward off evil spirits.

Holly

Planted by some in England to guard against lightning and evil spirits, it is also considered unlucky to cut down the Holly. In Ireland it is supposed to be the home of fairies.

Juniper

May Day might see sprigs of Juniper hung above doorways in Scotland to guard against witches. It is burnt on Halowe'en for the same reason.

Oak

Some folk believe that if you stand near a large Oak, you will feel the power emanating from the tree. The Oak, which is often struck by lightning, has consequently been associated with the gods of thunder.

Pear

Do you dream of pear trees? This is said to be a good omen!

Poplar

The red catkins associated with the Black Poplar are also known as Devil's Fingers and it is believed to bring bad fortune if you pick them up.

Rowan

Rowan would be tied to the collar of a dog ? consequently he was thought to run faster. Sprigs might also be brought into the milking parlour to protect the milk and cows.

Willow

Willow was used as an adornment by those who had lost in love. Some carry a sally rod to give good luck.

Yew

Yew branches were carried on Palm Sunday and at funerals; the tree symbolizes doom to some but immortality to others.