Rowan Tree

All you need to know about the rowan tree, from tips on how to identify it, to typical characteristics; how to spot common diseases and pests and the best way to maintain a rowan tree.

The rowan tree is a UK native species. Also known as the mountain ash because it is able to survive high altitudes, and also because its pinnate leaves are very similar to those of the common ash, this tree is well known for its stunning white spring flowers followed by striking bursts of bright red berries in late summer to early autumn. It’s a deciduous tree known to grow up to 15 metres in height and to live up to 200 years.

The rowan tree has a few other alternative names including witch wiggin, keirn and cuirn.

Witch wiggin as a name derives from the fact the rowan tree used to be planted by homeowners to protect against witches. In Ireland it was grown specifically to ward off evil spirits, and in Wales the rowan tree would regularly be seen in churchyards. In Scotland, it was forbidden to fell a rowan tree.

General Facts

Characteristics

Conditions

Threats

Rowan Trees and Wildlife

Moth caterpillars are particularly partial to rowan leaves, especially the autumn green carpet moth and the Welsh wave moth. Apple fruit moth caterpillars enjoy rowan berries, as do numerous birds including the blackbird, the mistle and song thrush, the redstart, redwing, waxwing and fieldfare. The flowers of the tree are rich in pollen and nectar, so attractive to bees and other pollinating insects.

Rowan Tree Symbolism and History

Years ago, rowan trees were often planted by householders to protect against witches. The bright scarlet red berries were considered effective in fighting evil, which is why this tree has long been associated with witches and magic. The Celtic name for the rowan tree is ‘fid na ndruad’, meaning ‘wizards’ tree’. People would often use rowan wood to stir milk to prevent it curdling, and it was also used to make divining rods.

The Importance of Rowan Trees

The pale, yellowy-brown wood of the rowan tree with its distinctive deep-brown heartwood is sometimes used in furniture making, wood-crafting and engraving. The rowan tree is a popular street tree, and its berries are edible and rich in vitamin C, sometimes used to make savoury jellies as meat accompaniments.

Caring for a Rowan Tree

Because the fruit of the rowan tree grows in abundance, it will often weigh heavy on the branches. This makes it essential to carry out regular rowan tree pruning so that there is a robust framework to support the fruit. Otherwise branches are likely to break off, presenting hazards and posing a risk to the health of the tree.

Regular pruning will promote good health by allowing air and sunlight to penetrate as well as letting wind to pass through without barriers, so preventing storm damage. It’s also good to remove crossing or damaged branches so that a clear trunk is left.

Never prune a rowan tree during the growing season because the sap will attract bugs and diseases. Autumn to early winter is considered the most appropriate time for rowan tree pruning, although any time of year is acceptable for dead wood removal.

For more about rowan tree pruning, follow this link.

If you have a rowan tree that would benefit from expert care and attention, why not get in touch with T.H. Tree Services? As fully qualified and highly experienced tree surgeons, we can offer detailed skill and knowledge across all areas of rowan tree care. For a free, no-obligation quotation, call us on 01268 642814 or get in touch here.

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