Category Archives: Fairy trees

Raggy tree in Riga? Maybe, maybe not

Posted on June 20, 2015 by sarthure

I’ve been in Riga in Latvia for a few days, enjoying the Baltic sun. And on the first evening, in a park near the Freedom Monument, I came across a tree decorated with ribbons. Although I immediately jumped to the … Continue reading →

Posted in Around the world, Fairy trees, Folk traditions, Folklore | Tagged , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Raggy tree in Riga? Maybe, maybe not

Raggy trees, an Irish pishogue

Posted on June 12, 2015 by sarthure

A pishogue, in the Irish tradition, is a charm or superstitious practice. And there are many associated with trees, including raggy trees, adorned with physical proof of enduring traditions. Here are just two of them, one at Fore, County Westmeath, … Continue reading →

Posted in Around the world, Fairy trees, Flora, Folklore, Ireland, Travelling | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Raggy trees, an Irish pishogue

Trees, part 1 – tree of knowledge

Posted on December 30, 2014 by sarthure

With Christmas looming, and a house in the middle of some minor but disruptive renovations, what to do with all the books piled in the room that is about to be slept in by visitors? Enter the Christmas book tree. Enrobed with … Continue reading →

Posted in Fairy trees, Folk traditions | Tagged , , | 5 Comments

Hawthorn (no, not the AFL team)

Posted on February 11, 2014 by sarthure

The hawthorn, also known as the may, whitethorn, and in Irish sceach gheal, is a significant sacred tree in Irish folklore. Known for its general protective powers, a hawthorn was often planted near houses to keep witches away. It was known … Continue reading →

Posted in Baker's Flat, Fairy trees, Flora, Folklore, Kapunda | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments