Rowan or Mountain Ash

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Published 1986

About

Sorbus aucuparia A small deciduous tree, common throughout the British Isles, it is found in woods, scrub and on mountains. The mountain ash flowers in May and June and bears fruit from August to November. The berries may hang on the tree until January but they are best picked in October when they have their full colour but have not yet become mushy. Cut the clusters whole from the trees and trim off any excess stalk.

The mountain ash has many connections with tradition and superstition, particularly relating to witches. On May Eve rowan crosses were worn and were fastened to cattle to give protection against witchcraft. The crosses had to be made without the use of a knife. Branches of rowan were brought indoors on Good Friday for the same purpose. Red thread was traditionally used in conjunction with the rowan:

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