Rowan (Sorbus aucuparia) sometimes called the mountain ash is a graceful & highly attractive tree with masses of scarlet berry fruits much loved by birds especially blackbirds. It has been adopted into many gardens & has a vast amount of folklore attached to it. There is archaeological evidence that it was present in these islands in the wild from pre-Neolithic to Roman times. in folklore it is variously known as quickbeam or witchen. The name rowan, however, derives from the Old Norse runa, meaning a charm, from its supposed ability to avert the evil eye & from where the casting of the runes is also derived. France & Germany once used bait traps for thrushes & fieldfares with rowan berries & in Tudor England, the branches were used to make bow staves for archery. The belief of Rowan warding off witches & evil has an uncertain providence. It was widely planted, particularly in Celtic countries, & has been associated with ancient stone circles & standing stones. Traditional Uses for Rowan Berries:- A jelly made from them is popular for dressing game. According to Robert James in 1747, the fruit is excellent for treating the scurvy. When dried & powdered the berries have been turned into a type of bread, & in an infusion make an acidulous drink. A gargle made from the berries is good for a sore throat & inflamed tonsils. However, it is bitter - very bitter. The astringent infusion is used as a remedy in haemorrhoids. The Welsh used to brew an ale from the berries, the secret of which is now lost. Rowan Berries - Sorbus Aucuparia
