Folklore of the Trees - Birch

Folklore of the Trees

We started a new series swap this year. The focus is on the Trees of England. Each swap is focused on a different Tree and The Folklore of the Tree. (Information taken from www.discoverwildlife.com)

We start you off with some basic information and once you are partnered you will send your partner something for their journal. * 1) A drawing, a painting, a photo or digital picture. It can focus on the leaves, the bark, or the entire tree. * 2) Include a short note from your character to theirs; to include something you’ve learned about the tree (fun fact) or a personal story including the theme tree. * 3) Decorate the envelope so the receiver will know it’s for the Folklore of the Trees swap.

For our second swap we’ll focus on:

Birch (Betula pubescens and pendula) The two birch species (downy birch and silvery birch) are among the first trees to come into leaf each year and was therefore connected with fertility and the onset of spring. It was also thought to be a purifier, so bundles of birch twigs were used to sweep away old spirits, cementing its association as the species used to make witches brooms. Birch tree sap can be drunk straight or simmered to create a lighter drink or sticky syrup.