The Rowan Month is from January 21 – February 17 and is associated with the Celtic goddess Brigid. The month of Rowan is associated with power, success, and travel. During Rowan, we celebrate the holiday Imbolc.
The word rowan comes from the Germanic word ‘reynir’ meaning to redden.
The Rowan Tree
Rowan (Sorbus aucuparia) trees, sometimes called Mountain Ash, are common in Great Britain and northern Europe. They are found in temperate regions around the Northern Hemisphere and are in the same family as the rose.
The Ash tree that is common in North America is a different species, Fraxinus, and is related to lilacs and olives. The two trees do look very similar.
Rowan trees grow in poor and rocky soil. They produce berries that come in shades of red and orange. The wood is used for many things such as tool handles, yokes, and spinning wheels. It’s popular with carvers.
Associations
This tree teaches us perseverance. That we can continue to grow and overcome obstacles. Like the great rowan tree, you have much strength within you.
The rowan/ash tree is associated with guardianship and can grow fifty feet tall. The berries form a natural cluster that reminds us of the womb. The shape of a pentagram is found at the stalk of the berries.
In some areas, they are planted in graveyards to make sure the dead do not linger.
Norse people often used the rowan branches as rune staves for protection. The first Norse woman was born of rowan and the tree saved Thor by helping him escape from the underworld.
Wanting to learn more about the Norse Pagan Religion? You can read our Introduction to Norse Paganism.
In Scotland, there is a strong taboo for cutting down a rowan tree and they were popular in yards to protect the home.
Associations
Ogham name - Luis
Color – white, grey, red
Animals – bear, groundhog, and duck
Planet – Uranus
Gemstone – Peridot, ruby, bloodstone
Flower - Snowdrop
Who is Brigid?
Brigid was the goddess of fire, hearth, and protection. She watches over mothers and families. Brigid is celebrated during Imbolc on February 2.
The White Month
The month of Rowan is often called the White Month. Brigid is also known as the Bride. Wear white while casting spells and use white candles.
Check out my video on Rowan
Celebrating the Month of Rowan
Food
Feast on white foods. Dairy, bread, and potatoes are popular.
Eat seeds, beans, and nuts to perpetuate new growth.
The berries of the rowan are eatable, but the seeds are toxic. They must be removed. The berries alone can be made into jelly or fermented for a drink.
Hang berries in doorways to ward off evil spirits. Farmers have traditionally hung the berries in barns to protect livestock.
Rowan Charm
You will need:
2 six-inch branches from the rowan or ash tree. Leave a red ribbon for an offering if you cut them from the tree
12-inch length of red ribbon
White candle lit at your alter space or where you perform the ritual
Method:
1. Hold the sticks in a cross formation and face east for Air
2. Recite “I bring together the spirits of this tree to honor Brigid. May they bring us (me) together for the good of all”.
3. Bind the sticks with a red ribbon to symbolize power. As you bind them envision a powerful white light going into the branches.
4. Hold your charm up to the sky. Recite “Thanks be to Brigid, the bride, and the tree spirits. Bless me with power and protect me from evil spirits”.
Spring Cleaning
The Rowan Month is for spring cleaning. Clear out the clutter that inhibits your energy. Make way for new energy and a time of growth.
Author, Erik studied Anthropology in college and is currently completing an internship with the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History. Erik desires to be a Viking when he grows up and has worked in Outdoor Adventure leading hikes and rafting trips. A solitary Wiccan, Erik writes about Wicca, Norse religion, and making alters.
Artio is a Celtic Bear Goddess. She is strong and enduring and one of my favorite deities because she protects wild animals and the natural world. Artio is an environmental educator’s dream goddess.