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Trees have long been a sacred symbol in many cultures. Ancient people all over the world celebrated the kinship of nature with humans, with trees representing creation tales and specific deities, as well as growth and knowledge. Trees symbolize many different things in religion and folklore, from the Tree of Life to the ancient Celtic calendar. Incorporating tree magick into your own spiritual practice is an easy way to connect with nature on a personal level.

Wheel of the Year and Tree Magick

If you follow the Wheel of the Year, you may opt to pay homage to certain trees during certain sabbats. Oak is associated with the bonfires of Litha during midsummer, while evergreen trees are popular at Yule. Rowan trees are associated with the Goddess Brigid who is celebrated at Imbolc, while Hawthorn trees are celebrated during Beltane. Apple trees bear fruit during the season of Mabon and Samhain. Both Ostara and Birch trees symbolize renewal. And as Lughnasdh represents the start of the abundant harvest season, it seems fitting to associate that sabbat with Pine and Maple, both of which are associated with abundance and prosperity.

In her book The Modern Witchcraft Spell Book, author Skye Alexander notes that as part of practicing tree magick, it’s important to ask the tree’s permission before cutting off a branch or twig. And afterwards you should thank the tree and leave an offering, such as composted fertilizer to help it renew.

The Meanings & Associations of Different Trees

Every tree is tethered to different beliefs and associations. Oaks are associated with strength and longevity, often used in ceremonial fires for the Wheel of the Year. While Elder trees are believed by some to be sacred and should never be burned. According to Judy Ann Nock in her book The Modern Witchcraft Book of Natural Magick Rowan trees are thought to hold all the secrets of the world, except the name of God.

Here are some common tree names and their associations:

Ash - associated with sacrifice, protection, strength and harmony

Apple - associated with immortality, beauty, happiness and security

Birch - associated with renewal, celasing, purification and protection

Cedar - associated with healing, protection and creativity

Elder - associated with birth, death and fairy folk

Fir - associated with birth, resurrection and honesty

Hazel - associated with divination, wisdom, luck, fertility and protection

Maple - associated with balance, practicality, love and abundance

Oak - associated with strength, power and longevity

Pine - associated with creativity, longevity, cleaning and prosperity

Rowan - associated with spirituality, protection and fairy folk

Willow - associated with healing, dreams and the underworld

Yew - associated with immortality, protection and death

Tree magick is still practiced today as part of spell work, sacred circles, religious rituals and individual spiritual paths. Trees can be used as an anchor for meditation, community celebrations, as ingredients in spell work, and as part of herbal remedies. Always remember to ask permission before cutting any part of tree and give thanks afterwards.

Do you have a favorite type of tree? Do you practice tree magic as part of your spiritual path? Share in the comments!