Tree of Spring: The Birch

Ever wondered about the different properties and characteristics of our native trees?  Or that they may represent certain elements or seasons?  Here’s a quick look at one of our seasonal favourites.  Why not step outside and introduce yourself to a birch tree…

– It’s name means ‘bright’ or ‘shining’, also known as Lady of Woods

– Birch is the ‘tree of inception’, traditionally signifying new beginnings, and therefore associated with spring.

– Birch is one of the first trees to put on its leaves in spring, it is very hardy and thrives in the South and East of UK.

– Its bark is particularly tough and will remain intact even after the centre wood has rotted, resulting in hollow papery logs.

– It hosts the second largest number of species of fungi in its roots.

– Birch is known for many uses: the sap as a herbal remedy for flushing out the body, wood for canoes, roofs and barrels, bark as parchment for writing, twigs for brooms.

Article inspired by Tree Wisdom: The definitive guidebook to the myth, folklore and healing power of Trees by Jacqueline Memory Paterson