Tree Calendar

Tree Calendar

The Celtic Tree Calendar is a system of 13 months, each named after a tree or plant and associated with the ancient Irish alphabet known as Ogham.

The calendar follows a cycle of 13 “months” (or lunar cycles) of approximately 28 days each, plus one “day” (December 23rd) not ruled by any tree.

The calendar begins right after the (northen hemisphere) Winter Solstice (Yule) and aligns each month with an Ogham letter and its symbolic meaning

 

Beth (Birch)      December 24 to January 20

New Beginnings, Regeneration, Purification. The pioneer tree that is the first to re-grow after a clearing, symbolizing a fresh start.

Luis (Rowan)    January 21 to February 17

Protection, Quickening, Astral Travel. Associated with fire and a strong magical defense against evil and negativity.

Nion (Ash)       February 18 to March 17

Connection, The World Tree, Inner Work. Links the inner and outer worlds; a time for connecting with the past and prophetic dreams.

Fearn (Alder)   March 18 to April 14

Determination, Shield, Prophecy. A tree that flourishes near water, symbolizing the bridge between heaven and earth; encourages decisiveness.

Saille (Willow) April 15 to May 12

Feminine Energy, Healing, Growth. Associated with the Moon and water, symbolizing flexibility, intuition, and the cycles of life.

Uath (Hawthorn) May 13 to June 9

Purity, Fertility, Cleansing. Marks the time after Beltane; associated with the Fae (fairies) and preparation for tasks.

Duir (Oak)       June 10 to July 7

Strength, Courage, Protection. The mightiest tree, symbolizing the height of the sun’s power, endurance, and a gateway to inner strength.

Tinne (Holly)    July 8 to August 4

Balance, Direction, Protection. An evergreen that represents the endurance of life; a symbol of masculine energy and firmness.

Coll (Hazel)      August 5 to September 1

Wisdom, Knowledge, Intuition. The tree of knowledge; its nuts were said to contain concentrated wisdom, inspiring creativity and divination.

Muin (Vine)      September 2 to September 29

Harvest, Transformation, Joy. Represents the harvest season; symbolizes the cycles of change, opportunity, and emotional depth.

Gort (Ivy)        September 30 to October 27

Perseverance, Regeneration, Growth. Symbolizes the ability to overcome obstacles, growing and adapting to harsh conditions.

Ngetal (Reed)   October 28 to November 24

Clarity, Security, Communication. Associated with finding truth and expression; a time for reflection and separating truth from illusion.

Ruis (Elder)      November 25 to December 22

Rebirth, Endings, Magic. Marks the end of the yearly cycle, representing the death that precedes rebirth and renewal.

December 23 is not ruled by any tree for it is the traditional “Year and a Day”