March 18 to April 14
Pronunciation: Fearn/Ffearn-pronounced FAIR-n
Other names: Fernd, Fernn, gwernen [W]
Tarot Key: The Fool
Symbols:The Pentacle, The Hawk(Celtic), Red Fox, Ram, Stallion, Snakes, Butterflies, A strong foundation, The Vernal Equinox (Alban Eilir)
Zodiac Degrees : 26°00` Pisces - 23°59` Aries
Ruling Planet : Mars - Maurth
Ancient Gods Associated With Mars :
Greek : AresCeltic : Bran, Arthur, Airem, TuetatesGender:Masculine
Letter: F, V
Class: Cheiftain
Color: Crimson
Full Moon: Moon of Utility;Moon of Efficacy; Moonof Self-Guidance
Magickal properties:Spirituality; Teaching; Weather magick; Duty; Mental Prowess
Meaning: Help in making choices; spiritual guidance and protection.
Alders are members of the Birch family (Betulaceae) and are very ancient trees that have grown in the British Isles for thousands of years. The common alder (Alnus glutinosa (L.) Gaertner) is common along lowland rivers, where it grows with aspens, poplars, and willows. Like willows, alders sprout from stumps which allows them to regenerate after heavy flooding. In protected sites they may grow to 65 feet tall. Their leaves are more blunt-tipped than most North American alders, which look more like the grey alder (A. incana (L.) Moench). This species is more common in the mountains of Europe, and is not restricted to moist soils. Like ashes, European alders are not widely cultivated in North American (they are often sold as black alders), but several native species are. It is a very thirsty tree and requires a lot of water, much like the willow .
The Alder can be recognized in the forest by it's long trunk and narrow crown and toothy leaves, as well as, by its regularly spaced branches and its conical shape. It's catkin-like fruit ripens in December. The barks produce red and black dyes; the young shoots yellow; the fresh wood pink and the catkins green.
The alder has many hues - the trunks change from white to reddish-yellow after felling. (The similarity to blood led to the tradition that felling alders was unlucky.) The reddish wood is used to make cabinets and in times past warrior's shields were made from alder wood. The timber from this tree is oily and water-resistant, and is often used for under-water foundations, household foundations and support beams as the oiliness makes it resistant to water damage. Parts of Venice and many medieval cathedrals were built on alder foundations.
The period of the Vernal Equinox is an extremely important period in the Celtic year. as it represents free will and liberty in a moral context. It is still considered a crime to cut down a sacred Alder tree and he who does is considered the cause of any trouble in the village.
Gods
This tree is linked to Bran the blessed. Bran was a mighty warrior of ancient Britain. Legend says that he used his body to span the river Linon, forming a bridge to protect his followers from the flooding waters, as alder wood does when used as a building foundation. It should also be noted that Bran, while not always the victor, was never seen as completly defeated. In one battle Bran fights the Ash King on behalf of the Alder King. Though he loses the battle, he is still recognized as a great warrior.
In Irish myth, Gwydion was the Poet-Magician/Trickster/Thief of the Tuatha de Danaan.
Magick
The Alder is associated with courage and it represents the evolving spirit. This month represents 'That Which Is and Is Not' and is connected to poetic madness. The Alder protects in disputes helping you to see the real issues from the false. It is also considered to be a help in oracular strengths. Because the Alder was used for turnings and foundations, it is recognized to be linked with the raven as well. It is also useful in conquering of adversaries or difficulties, finding strength from within.The Celts would often name their weapons and credit them with magical powers. When feeling threatened, either physically and/or mentally, invoke the spirit of Alder.
Celtic Alder Moon Tea
Edain McCoy
For: Spirituality, wholeness of being.
1 part linden
1 part hibiscus
2 tablespoons of cream or milk
splash of cranberry juice
Brew at least 2 minutes in 8 oz of hot water-use no more than 1 T. herbs in a tea ball for each mug
Celtic Astrology
Alder people can be like the Phoenix rebuilding themselves after each defeat or set back. They have tendencies to be oracles. They can be brutal in their frankness yet they are kind. They cannot only provide protection but may also be in need of protection spiritually because others may envy what they have and try to use it or take it for their own. They have to be careful not to abuse their gifts. Because Alders take 60 years to mature most
Alder people can be very immature acting and make rash poorly thought-through decisions.
Alder tree characters are powerful individuals who are prepared to make their own way in the world. The path ahead is still full of pitfalls however, and the virtue of courage is attributed to this sign.
Alder tree people make staunch allies, but prefer to fight their own battles and set the pace for others to follow. Their destination is always uncertain and a restless spirit prevails. New moon people, born during the first two weeks of this sign are perhaps the most restless and indecisive alder tree characters. While their personal courage and sincerity may never be in doubt, they would do well to slow down every so often and reconsider the consequences of their actions.
Full moon people who are born during the last two weeks are the most persuasive alder tree characters. They exude a more confident approach to life generally, but can lack the apparent vibrant energy associated with the new moon people. They can, however, become extremely successful people by being strategically placed in the right position tio take full advantage of crisis situations.
Celtic Tree Month of Alder
