05/30/2026
Hawthorn trees have been in full bloom since I arrived, and now Iâm observing the petals gently float to the earth like snowflakes. Beautiful and magical trees with strong crooked branches and delicate flowers. In Irish folklore, the Whitethorn, also known as Hawthorn or May tree, holds a significant place, associated with fairies, spirits, and mystical beings. The Hawthorn is considered to be a gateway between this world and the Otherworld, the realm of the SĂdhe (Fairies). Youâll often see Hawthorns at the entry or perimeter of historic sites, stone monuments, or holy wells, and other liminal spaces. Believed to be a sacred tree, disturbing or cutting one down can bring bad luck or anger the fairies. Iâm told you shouldnât bring the flowers indoors for this reason. Many people in Ireland will not even trim a Hawthorn tree. One that stands alone is said to be protected by the Fae. Entire highways have been rerouted to avoid disturbance to these mythical trees.
In the ancient Ogham alphabet Hawthorn or HĂșath is associated with the letter âHâ. Ogham was an old system of writing used for millennia. It is not a language per se, but rather a script developed to express the sounds of the earliest forms of the Irish language. Found engraved in caves and on standing stones, often used as markers or wayfarer indicators, other early original carvings on bone or wood are now long gone. Most of the symbols or Fid are connected to the sacred trees and shrubs of the Celtic Isles, they are grouped into clusters of Aicme, and can be used for divination purposes. For me, I have staves that were crafted here in the Isles made from the branches and twigs of the bushes and trees of the Ogham. I use them as part of my Celtic Reiki practice to connect myself and my client to these ancient lands and forests. Yesterday I had the pleasure of returning to CosĂĄn CiĂșin / Tranquil Paths in County Leitrim. I walked the Ogham forest, which owner and caretaker, Moya, stewards. It has an intense but peaceful energy and was nice to see how it has grown and matured since I last visited.
In Irish herbalism, the Hawthorn holds medicinal properties. The leaves, flowers, and berries have been used for centuries to support heart health and promote emotional well-being. It is considered a sacred and potent herb, known for its ability to calm the mind and heal the spirit. I have a cherished Hawthorn tincture for heart health that took nine months to brew. Aoife, the herbalist who creates it, was taught the proper technique and ritual to carefully hand-gather and extract the essence from the blossoms, the leaves, and the berries over the treeâs annual life cycle from Bealtaine to Samhain to ceremonially and respectfully create this special remedy.
The Hawthorn's presence in Irish landscape and lore is a testament to the deep connection the people here have between the natural world and the spiritual realm.
