Celtic Tree of Life (Crann Bethadh)  The Tree was a central part of early Celtic spirituality.

To the Celts, the tree was a source of basic sustenance- a bearer of food, a provider of shelter and fuel for cooking and warmth. Without trees, life would have been extraordinarily difficult.

Wood from sacred trees had magickal properties, which was reflected in the Celtic Ogham alphabet, wherein each letter represents a particular sacred tree (modern Ogham divination is based on the uses and importance of these sacred trees to the Celtic people). Some trees provided food, some wood for making hunting weapons; others were sacred to the fairy-folk or to the Gods. In Celtic creation stories, trees were the ancestors of mankind, elder beings of wisdom who provided the alphabet, the calendar, and entrance to the realms of the Gods.

Trees were also associated in the Shamanic beliefs of the Druids and other Celtic peoples with the supernatural world. Trees were a connection to the world of the spirits and the ancestors, living entities, and doorways into other worlds.

The most sacred tree of all was the Oak tree, which represented the axis mundi, the center of the world. The Celtic name for oak, daur, is the origin of the word door- the root of the oak was literally the doorway to the Otherworld, the realm of Fairy. The word Druid, the name of the Celtic Priestly class, is compounded from the words for oak and wise- a Druid was one who was "Oak Wise," meaning learned in Tree magick and guardian or the doorway.

Long after the Druids of old have vanished into the mists of time, the lore of trees continues as a vital part of Celtic myth and folklore. Countless Irish legends revolve around trees. One could fall asleep next to a particular tree and awake in the fairy realm. In Celtic legends of the Gods, trees guard sacred wells and provide healing, shelter, and wisdom. Trees carried messages to the other realm, and conferred blessings- to this day, trees can be seen in the Irish countryside festooned with ribbons and pleas for favors, love, healing, and prosperity.

The interlaced figures known popularly as Celtic knots represent sacred trees and plants, and the sacred animals of the forest. The Green Man or foliate god is the animus of nature; the spirit of the forest and of the hunt, and is pictured as a spirit face in the form of gathered leaves and sprouting tendrils.

You can read more about the Tree of Life and its significance in various cultures here.

Related Symbols:

Related resources:

• Celtic Knot Gallery
• The Tree of Life
  The Tree of life is a universal motif, found in every ancient culture- a symbol of the uniting of heaven and earth, spiritual nourishment, and even enlightenment.
• Druid/Celtic religion
  Celtic and Druid faiths, beliefs, history, and culture, plus an overview of Druid groups and orders, events, and publications.

GENERAL INFORMATION ON THE CELTIC TREE MONTHS

The moon is perhaps humankind's oldest form of marking time. According to some scholars, the Celts used a Lunar Calendar that consisted of 13 months, each 28 days in length. Each month of the Celtic Lunar calendar bears the name of a tree, which also stands for one of the consonants in the Celtic 'tree alphabet'. There are basically two different versions of this Lunar calendar: the Beth-Luis-Nion (which begins on the Winter Solstice) and the Beth-Luis-Fearn (which begins on Samhain). I work with the Beth-Luis-Nion simply because it seems to work the best for my style of Witchcraft.

Beth-Luis-Nion version of The Celtic Tree calendar

• B - Beth, the Birch Month (December 24th - January 20th)
• L - Luis, the Rowan Month (January 21st - February 17th)
• N - Nion, the Ash month (February 18th - March 17th)
• F - Fearn, the Alder Month (March 18th - April 14th)
• S - Saille, the Willow Month (April 15th - May 12th)
• H - Huath, the Hawthorn Month (May 13th - June 9th)
• D - Duir, the Oak Month (Jun 10th - July 7th)
• T - Tinne, the Holly Month (July 8th - August 4th)
• C - Coll, the Hazel Month (August 5th - September 1st)
• M - Muin, the Vine Month (September 2nd - September 29th)
• G - Gort, the Ivy Month (September 30th - October 27th
• Ng - Ngetal, the Reed Month (October 28th - November 24th)
• R - Ruis, the Elder Month (November 25th - December 23rd)

The five vowels I, A, O, U, and E have corresponding tree names to the nights of the solstices and equinoxes:

• I - Idho, the Night of the Yew, Winter Solstice Eve
• A - Ailm, the Night of the Silver Fir, Winter Solstice
• * - Herb too sacred to have a Celtic name, the Night of Mistletoe, Day after Winter Solstice
• O - Onn, the Night of the Gorse Bush, Spring Equinox
• U - Ura, the Night of the Heather, Summer Solstice
• E - Eadha, the Night of the White Poplar, Alban Elfed or Autumnal Equinox

Trees

• Birch, 1st Moon of the Celtic Year - (Dec 24 - Jan 21)
• Rowan, 2nd Moon of the Celtic Year - (Jan 22 - Feb 18)
• Ash, 3rd Moon of the Celtic Year - (Feb 18 - March 17)
• Alder, 4th Moon of the Celtic Year - (March 18 - April 14)
• Willow, 5th Moon of the Celtic Year - (April 15 - May 12)
• Hawthorn, 6th Moon of the Celtic Year - (May 13 - June 9)
• Oak, 7th Moon of the Celtic Year - (June 10 - July 7)
• Holly, 8th Moon of the Celtic Year - (July 8 - Aug 4)
• Hazel, 9th Moon of the Celtic Year - (Aug 5 - Sept 1)
• Vine, 10th Moon of the Celtic Year - (Sept 2 - Sept 29)
• Ivy, 11th Moon of the Celtic Year - (Sept 30 - Oct 27)
• Reed, 12th Moon of the Celtic Year - (Oct 28 - Nov 24)
• Elder, 13th Moon of the Celtic Year - (Nov 25 - Dec 23)
• Furze, Tree of the Spring Equinox (Aprox. March 20)
• Heather, Tree of the Summer Solstice (Aprox. June 20)
• Poplar, Tree of the Fall Equinox - (Aprox. September 22)
• Yew, Tree of the day before the Winter Solstice (Aprox. December 21)
• Fir, Tree of the day of the Winter Solstice
• Mistletoe, Tree of the day after the Winter Solstice (Aprox. December 23)

 Although each tree had different meanings to the ancient Celts, the tree was uniformly venerated as a source of wisdom and hope, an enduring link between the upper and lower worlds, a reminder of the eternal cycle of the seasons.  The Man in the Tree, or Derg Corra, is always accompanied by a stag. He is the Celtic guardian of knowledge. The oak tree is commonly associated with the ancient Druids who are thought to have congregated in groves.  In Doonwell, Ireland, there is a tree upon which one often sees hanging personal belongings, such as, handkerchiefs, scarves and bits of clothing. There are many trees such as that one, often called rag trees. Such trees are thought to contain spiritual powers of healing. The Celtic Tree of Life is an image of the Otherworld. The roots were deep in the earth and the branches stretched to the heavens. Its trunk exists within this realm.  The Celtic Tree of Life is one of the most popular and enduring motifs of Celtic Art, found both on Celtic crosses and on illuminated manuscripts such as the Book of Kells.  Other trees of symbolic importance in Northwestern Europe were the oak, the forest tree associated with the god of the sky, the evergreen yew which lives to a great age, and the apple tree, the favourite fruit-bearing tree of the people of the North.  In ancient China, trees in the vicinity of tombs or temples were protected as it was believed that the spirits of the dead and of the goods resided in them.The Kabbalistic Tree of Life represents aspects of spirituality. Irish tradition supports continental evidence of the Celtic tradition of tree worship: names of monastic foundations such as Brighid's Kildare (Cell-data, "Church of the Oak") or Columba's Durrow (Dair-mag, "Oak-plain") and Derry (Doire Calgaich, "Calgach's Oak Wood"), and Ailbe's Emly in Tipperary (originally Imblech-Ibair, i.e., "the umbilicus of the Yew," marking the "center" of an ancient tribal group) leave traces of proof that later-day Christian sites
were often converted pagan sanctuaries. The Irish term 'bile' denotes a red tree and is applied generally to several types, including the oak, the  yew and the ash. Such usage is illustrated by the Biliu Buada (Tree of Victory) visited by Lugh, during his trip as Cú Chulainn's surrogate to the Otherworld in the Serglige Con Culainn In Germany and Scandinavia, it is customary to have a guardian or lucky tree beside a house. Symbolic offerings might be made to it, and ale poured over its roots at festivals.  In Norway, the World Tree was a provider of nourishment and a source of healing; dews from it enriched the valleys of earth and drops from its leaves brought benefit to men. It was also the source of the world's rivers, for they flowed from the horns of the hart which fed upon its foliage, while from the horns of the goat which did likewise came the mead which supplied the warriors in the hall of Odin. In Winter Solstice and Yule celebrations, the decorated evergreen symbolises the life-force that persists even in the dead months of the year. The Celtic Moons are based upon trees. The Celtic Green Man stands for humanity's kinship with trees and woods, irrepressible life, and the cycle of renewal and birth.  Oak, ash and thorn were called the faerie triad of trees. Where they grow together, faeries live.

Celtic Tree Astrology

Celtic Tree Astrology

The Celitc Zodiac is based on the cycle of the moon with the year divided into 13 lunar months, each associated with a tree sacred to the Druids. The Druids believed the human race originally desended from the trees. Each tree had particular magical qualities. They encoded these mysteries in a secret shamanic alphabet, known as the Ogham, the origin of which is ascribed to Ogma, the Celtic God of Poetry. The 13 tree - months each correspond to a tree, a letter of the Ogham alphabet, a Guardian Animal and a Celtic God.

The Birch Tree.. 24 December - 20 January - To the druids, the Birch represented renewel and rebirth as it was the first tree in leaf after winter.Birch people are determined, resilient and ambitious. Good organisers, leaders and strategists, they are not deterred by setbacks, believing hard work, patience and persistance will triumph. They are loyal but reserved in showing affection.
The Ruling Diety - The Celtic Warrior God Lugh, inventor of all arts and crafts, rules this sign.
The Druic Animal - The white stag symbolises high ideals and aspirations - Birch people need a goal in life or they become depressed and pessimistic. Planetary Ruler - Sun Ogham Word - Beithe

The Rowan Tree.. 21 January - 17 February - Rowans were planted near doors and gates to ward off evil and were thought to guard the gateway to the spirit world. Rowan people are idealistic, progressive thinkers with strong humanitarian and spiritual principles. They thrive on change, becoming impatient with convention or restriction, artistic and original, they can appear detached and aloof.
The Ruling Deity - Brigid, the Goddess of fertility and poetry, rules this sign.
The Druic Animal - The Dragon symbolises inspiration and imagination - Rowans need an outlet for their powerful imagination or they can become restless and quarrelsome. Planetary Ruler - Uranus Ogham Word - Luis

The Ash Tree.. 18 February - 17 March - The Ash was a sacred chieftain tree, said to "court the flash" as it was prone to lightning strike. Its wood was thought to be enchanted and was used for Druidic wands and spears. Ash people are quick witted, spontaneous and gregarious. They have a lively curiosity and are intellgent, persuasive speakers, enthusiastic, inquisitve and communicative. They love discussing new ideas and projects.
The Ruling Deity - The Magician, storyteller and trickster. Gwydion rules the sign.
The Druic Animal - The Adder symbolises wisdom and spiritual energy - Ash people need to focus their mental abilities or they can become nervous and irritable. Planetary Ruler - Neptune Ogham Word - Nion

The Alder Tree.. 18 March - 14 April Alder resist rot in water and was used to make bridges, boats, clogs and milk jugs. It was a crime to fell an alder, as the angry tree spirit would burn down houses. Alder people are courageous, energetic, impetuous and determinded to make their own way in the world. Self-reliant and adventurous, they love taking risks and are tenacious workers. Affectionate and charming, they inspire great loyalty in others.
The Ruling Deity - The God of the spirit world, Bran the Blesses, rules this sign.
The Druic Animal - The Fox symbolises skill in diplomacy- Alders must learn the art of diplomacy or they waste energy in fruitless disputes. Planetary Ruler - Mars Ogham Word - Fern

The Wilow Tree.. 15 April - 12 May - The Willow was sacred to the Moon and in Celtic myth the universe was hatched from two eggs hidden among the boughs of the Willow. Willow people have good memories and are articulate, strong willed and resourceful, emotional and enigmatic. They have quick responses and are prone to sudden mood changes.
The Ruling Deity - The Celtic Moon Goddess Ceridwen rules this sign.
The Druic Animal - The Hare symbolises adaptation and intuition. Willows must trust their inner voice ot they can become moody and chronically indecisive. Planetary Ruler - Moon Ogham Word - Sail

The Hawthorn Tree.. 13 May - 9 June - Hawthorn, or May, was a symbol of psychic protection due to its sharp thorns. Faery spirits were thought to live in Hawthorn hedges, which were planted as protective shields around fields, houses and churchyards. Hawthorn people are mercurial, innovative, creative and confident. Easily bored, they crave mental stimulation and challenge. They are eloquent and gifted performers, exuding natural charm.
The Ruling Deity - The summer flower maiden Olwen rules this sign.
The Druic Animal - The Owl symbolises wisdom and patience - Hawthorns must develop patience or hasty action can sabotage their best efforts. Planetary Ruler - Vulcan Ogham Word - Uath

The Oak Tree.. 10 June - 7 July - The Oak was the sacred tree of the Druids, symbolising truth and steadfast knowledge. Doors made of Oak were thought to keep out evil. Oak people are determined, self-motivated, enthusiastic and responsible. Natural leaders, they remain calm in a crisis and are not easily swayed by opposition. Although serious minded, they are cheerful and optimistic and do not give up easily.
The Ruling Deity - The Father of all Gods, The Dagda rules this sign.
The Druic Animal - The Wren, the Celtic king of the birds, symbolises wit and sublety - Oaks must temper pride with humor or they become pompus and overbearing. Planetary Ruler - Jupiter Ogham Word - Duir

The Holly Tree.. 8 July - 4 August - When Celtic Chieftains chose a successor, he was crowned with a Holly wreath. The ever-green Holly was thought to repel enemies, and warriors carried Holy wood cudgels. Holly people are practical, capable and steadfast in adversity, cautious, logical and efficient. They have good business sense but prefer to assist rather than lead. In relationships they are suportive, protective and possessive.
The Ruling Deity - The Smith God Govannon rules this sign The Druic Animal - The Unicorn symbolises purity and strength - Holies must be less perfectionistic or they may suffer loss of confidence and direction.
Planetary Ruler - Earth
Ogham Word - Tinne, crime punishable by death to fell one.

The Hazel Tree ... 5 August - 1 September - It was thought magical skills and knowledge could be gained from eating Hazel nuts. Hazel people are artistic. They have lively, analytical minds and make inspiring teachers. Imaginative, they are radical and idealistic thinkers.
The Ruling Deity - The Sea God Manannan Mac Lir, a master of disguise, rules this sign.
The Druic Animal - To the Celts, the Salmon is the oldest and wisest animal, symbolising inspiration - Hazels need to express their creativity or they can become morbid and introspective Planetary Ruler - Mercury Ogham Word - Coll

The Vine Tree.. 2 September - 29 September - The Grapevine requires care to bear fruit in the cool Celtic climate and became a symbol of sacred knowledge and spiritual initiation. Vine people are discriminating, authoritative and set high personal standards. They appear cool and detached but are secret romantics and can be sensitive, vulnerable and self critical. Keenly perceptive, they have an eye for detail and refined aesthetic taste.
The Ruling Deity - The Tuatha De Danaan Gods of Light rule this sign.
The Druic Animal - The Swan symbolises grace and beauty - Vines must overcome a tendency to procrastinate or they can become lost in worry and negativity. Planetary Ruler - Venus Ogham Word - Muin

The Ive Tree.. 30 September - 27 October - The power of the Ivy to cling and bind made it a potent symbol of determination and strength. Ivy can strange trees and was a portent of death and spiritual growth. Ivy people are restless, socialble and good natured. Cheerful, expnasive and magnetic, they win friends easily and dislike offending others. Although often indecisive, they are not weak willed and tackle difficult tasks with infectious optimism.
The Ruling Deity - The faery bride Guinevere rules this sigh
The Druic Animal - The Butterfly symbolises faery faith - Ivy people must not get too caught up in others problems or they can suffer disappointment and betrayal. Planetary Ruler - Persephone Ogham Word - Gort

The Reed Tree.. 28 October - 24 November - The Druids believed the Reed was a tree because of its dense root system. Cut Reeds were used as pens and symbolised wisdon and scholarship. Reed people are complex, tenacious and fearless. Proud and independent, they have great strength of character and rarely compromise. They thirve on challenge and have an innate belief in their own destiny.
The Ruling Deity - The Celtic God the Underworld, Pwyll rules this sign
The Druic Animal - Hound or Dog was a title of honour for Celtic Chieftains as the Dog symbolised enduring loyalty - Reeds must unite a sense of purpose with their strong will or they can become self destructive. Planetary Ruler - Pluto Ogham Word - Ngetal

The Elder Tree.. 25 November - 23 December - The Elder tree was sacred to the faeries and branches were hung above stables to protect horses from evil spirits. It was unlucky to burn Elder and an omen of death to bring it indoors. Elder people are self sufficient, lively, impetuous and outspoken. They dislike routine and refuse to be pressured by others. Restless and highly energetic, they thrive on change and need constant mental and physical challenge
The Ruling Deity - The crown Goddess and celtic tribal mother Cailleach Beara rules this sign
The Druic Animal - The Raven symbolises healing and protection - Elders must learn to use change as a positive force in their lives or they can become reckless and confused Planetary Ruler - Saturn Ogham Word - Ruis