Hazel Tree- Representing the Sacred Feminine

Scientifically known as Corylus avellana, is a remarkable species that has been revered for centuries in the United Kingdom for its myriad uses and bountiful harvests. This versatile tree is native to Europe and parts of Asia, thriving in temperate climates and moist, well-drained soils. Whilst it is appreciated for its timber, hedging capabilities, and ecological importance, it is the tree’s edible offerings that truly captivate enthusiasts.

Tree Of Knowledge: Ninth month of the celtic tree calender, August 5th- September 1st	Scientific Name: Corylus Avellana, English Hazel; C. americana American Hazel	Ogham: Coll
Day: Wednesday	Energy: Yin	Tarot: High Priestess, Moon
Solar System: Mecury	Celebration: Mabon	Elements: Air, Water
Number: 9	Magickal: Faeries	Marine Life: Salmon
Gods: Thor, Hermes	Goddess: Diana, Artemis	Stone: Topaz, Pearl
Bird: Crane	Color: Orange	Zodiac: Gemini, Leo, Libra, Virgo

Issues, Intentions, Power & Symbolism:

beauty, clairvoyance, communication, creativity, defense, divination, fertility, healing, inspiration, intelligence, introspection, intuition, knowledge, longevity, luck, wish magick, magick, marriage, the mind, the otherworld/underworld, power, problems, protection, reconciliation, security, strength, support from fae, weather(lightning), wisdom, wishes, divination, poetry, playfulness, enchantment, healing arts, abundance.

Medicinal Properties

To clear a stubborn cough, finely powder the nuts and mix with water and honey.

The leaves can be used in teas such to treat such ailments as varicose veins, circulatory problems, fevers, diarrhea and excessive menstrual flow.

Hazelnuts are a good source of protein, vitamin E, calcium, magnesium, and potassium.

Magickal properties

Wands made of this wood symbolize white magick and healing. Forked sticks are used to find water or buried treasure. If outside and in need of magickal protection quickly draw a circle around yourself with a hazel branch. To enlist the aid of plant fairies, string hazelnuts on a cord and hang up in your house or ritual room. Magically, hazel wood is used to gain knowledge, wisdom and poetic inspiration.

Hazel wood is excellent for making all purpose magickal wands.

Weave hazel twigs into a crown. Put this on your head and wish very hard. Your wish may come true!

Twigs of Hazel are placed in window frames to protect the house against lightning, and three pins of hazel wood driven into your house will protect it from fire.

The air surrounding hazel trees is said to be magically charged  with the quicksilver energy of exhilaration and inspiration.

To dream of a Hazelnut tree predicts wealth as well as unexpected good fortune.

Hazel trees are viewed as a gateway between this world and the Fairy realm.

This is the best time of year to focus on gaining wisdom and absorbing knowledge.  Cast spells to heighten your senses and concentration.

In England, branches of Hazel leaves gathered on Palm Sunday and kept alive indoors in water were said to protect the house from thunder and lightning. In Wales, fresh hazel leaves worn as a chaplet for the head brought general good luck and ensured the granting of wishes, as well as protection for those at sea from shipwreck.

Hazel is believed to grant poetic inspiration, prophecy, and, when consumed, knowledge.

Spiritual Uses

Meditation: Sitting near a hazel tree is said to enhance deep meditation and insights. Ritual Tools: Used in, for example, circle casting and creating protective,,,Staffs. Good Luck: Hazel nuts are used as charms for luck and to ward off illness, such as rheumatism.

Hazel Tree Identification

Hazelnuts: Hazelnuts, the fruits of hazel trees, are small round nuts that grow in clusters, typically enclosed in a leafy husk. The nuts themselves are light brown with a hard, woody shell. Hazelnuts mature and become ripe from late summer to early autumn.

Growth habit: Hazel trees often have multiple trunks and grow in dense clusters or stands. They can reach heights of 3 to 8 metres, depending on the species and growing conditions.

Habitat: Hazels thrive in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, hedgerows, and open areas. They prefer well-drained soil and partial shade but can tolerate a range of conditions.

When identifying hazel trees, it’s helpful to consider a combination of these characteristics, including the leaves, bark, catkins, and nuts. Taking note of the tree’s surroundings and habitat can also provide additional clues for accurate identification.

The Hazel Tree

The Hazel tree holds an esteemed position in British folklore and mythology, with references dating back to ancient times. In Celtic mythology, it was associated with wisdom and poetic inspiration, often depicted as a magical tree that bore nuts of knowledge. In British folklore, it was believed that Hazel trees had protective properties, guarding against evil spirits. The tree was even said to bring luck to those who planted it near their homes.

How can we begin to understand this time of year as the ancient tribal people of Europe once did? We can begin by looking around at what is taking place in the yearly cycle. August is the time when the summer ripens and mellows. The pumpkins are green, their orbs increasing in size by the day. Occasionally, a hint of autumn drifts through the air.

The people who saw the deep and abiding alliance between the trees, months and lunar cycles tasted the seasons intimately—for their survival depended upon this relationship. They chose to see August through the lens of the hazel tree. The Celts called this time Coll, which roughly translates as inner life force—pointing to the connection between essential life energy and this segment of our seasonal cycle. Summer is the time of work, maximum growth, and the expression of life in the outer world. This is due, mainly, to the length of the days—which generate so much activity.

Especially from the practical point of view of a people without the technological resources that we have today, the fullness of our life force was needed simply to survive. How else could a community prepare for the dark months ahead? There’s no growing food in winter.

Mythologically, the hazel is tied to inspiration and wisdom. The Gaelic word for hazel nut is cno; while the word for wisdom is cnocach. The connection between hazel nut and wisdom is from a story repeated in many variations of nine hazel trees surrounding a sacred spring. Nuts dropped into the water were eaten by salmon—a sacred fish which absorbed the wisdom. Salmon are almost synonymous with wisdom in Celtic culture. They are also a keystone species, critical for their entire habitat. Later, the salmon that ate the nut was eaten by Fionn mac Cumhaill, a boy who became a hero in Gaelic mythology. The number of bright spots on a salmon indicate how many hazel nuts it has eaten.

Then there is also the metaphor of the delicious nut, which grows a hardened husk as it matures over the seasons. Like a nut, inside us there are layers, or perhaps even shells or obstacles that must be crossed or broken through before we can enjoy the delightful treasure within—our inner wisdom, the universal knowledge. It follows, then, that the wood from the tree was used in the baelfire of Beltane. Staves, talismans, and wands were also carved from the hazel wood.

The hazel tree was also employed as an alliance-builder to help struggling couples. Holding it, connecting with the energy of the tree in a ceremonial context, could assist in an opening that could allow room for greater understanding, healing and forgiveness. On a very practical level, the wood was used to create U-shaped stakes which were utilized to anchor thatched roofs. Basket makers gathered the young shoots to create a variety of containers. The leaves themselves, usually among the first to appear in spring, were used to feed cows and to increase the yield of milk. The nuts themselves are full of protein and were a major staple.

September 14th, Holy Cross Day, was a school holiday in England up until the First World War. The custom on this day was for school children to go off and gather nuts. Again, all these activities associated with the tree express a grounded yet essential way of moving through life at a time when there is great energy. From both a pragmatic and spiritual viewpoint, the hazel nut teaches about vitality that springs from inner wisdom—activity with purpose and intent. Thus, the hazel tree is an ideal alliance for walking in balance with this time of year.

The Hazel Tree in Irish Magick Witchcraft and Folklore Stories

The hazel tree was held in high and mystical regard by the ancient Irish people. In Irish mythology the hazel tree was said to bestow wisdom and it is often considered the Irish tree of knowledge but the fact that we find hazel nuts at our much older megalithic sites shows that the tree was considered sacred in Ireland long before the arrival of the Celts.

Archaeologists believe that hazelnuts are found at these sites because they were considered a good food to offer to the ancestors of the Otherworld. In this respect the nuts were seen as being a source of sustenance that could cross the barrier of life and death for the newly deceased in their spirit incarnation.

Hazel woodlands are considered very liminal places with the boundaries between the physical and spiritual worlds particularly thin. Some traditions record that even by sitting beneath an individual hazel tree a person can be magically transported to the Otherworld. However, although the hazel tree itself is strongly associated with being a doorway to the Otherworld, paradoxically, the wood of the hazel can also be used to repel evil act as a warding tool against evil spirits.

Here is one example from the Irish folklore archives at Duchas.ie. In this instance the unfortunate man in the account does not recognize that the hazel stick is actually working and he tries to switch it for a white-thorn stick which he believes will be more powerful. Big mistake! Another interesting aspect to note here is the interchanging of the fairy’s description as both a ‘fairy’ and ‘witch’. “There was a certain fairy on “Bealach Buidhe” hill called “Petticoat Loose”. She was wicked and killed every one that she met. One night a man was going home and he met “Petticoat Loose.” He carried a stout hazel stick in his hand and the hazel is supposed to be proof against witchcraft and fairies. The witch attacked the man. He kept her away with the stick but did not succeed in driving her off. Then he saw a white-thorn stick in the dyke, and throwing down his own stick he went for the white-thorn. But he never reached it, because the minute the hazel stick was out of his hand she had her chance and killed him.” In many folk traditions a string of hazel nuts is actually considered a good way to forge a bond with the fairies of a place or tree. In some folklore traditions the twigs of the hazel tree are called ‘wishing caps’ and if a person wears them in their hair it can help make their wishes come true. This magical aspect is also prominent when it comes to dowsing. Many dowsers and diviners prefer to use hazel wood to create their rods. The wood is supposed to be especially sensitive to underground water sources as well as ‘energetic’ earth spots. As you will often read, the wands of witches and druids are sometimes made of hazel but this may change depending on factors such as the time of the year and the type of magic being conducted. The hazel wand is considered a good choice when ‘white’ magic and healing is being practiced, for example. However, as with all things esoteric, the will and intention of the practitioner will also determine its ritual function. In this intriguing account from Berrings, Co. Cork, a hazel rod is used for both warding and divination. There are other less obvious ritualistic motifs here that readers will recognize. “About twelve months ago I met a man from Grenagh, Co. Cork and in the course of conversation I inquired of him, how he was getting on, to which he replied that he was getting on very well now, but that he had suffered much for the past two or three years, and he proceeded to explain. He said that his cattle, sheep etc went completely “against” him and that a beast would not live in his farm of about 100 acres, and that he was almost “broken”. A young man from Ballyvourney bought a farm adjoining his and asked him to allow him put some sheep grazing on his farm. He told the man from Ballyvourney that it was no use putting his sheep grazing on his farm, as they would die like his own, and he proceeded to tell his tale of woe to his new neighbour from Ballyvourney, who there and then told Walsh the Grenagh man, to send his son up to him any evening and bring with him a half crown (silver) and that he would make matters right for him. Walsh did as he was ordered and the half crown was given to the Ballyvourney man, who then provided a hazel rod, and set out for Walsh’s farm accompanied by young Walsh. On reaching the farm they both set out to walk round by the boundary fence. They had not gone far when the Ballyvourney man halted and remarked that some one had gone round the boundary fence a short time previously and Walsh added that was so as his wife and himself had sprinkled holy water round by the boundary fence a short time before. However the two continued on round by the boundary fence, till they came to a three – bounds water – (a junction of three streams separating three town lands) where the Ballyvourney man again halted, remarking that it was there the damage was being done. He then said that he would stick the hazel rod in the ground at the three bound’s water and that while it remained there no further harm could come on cattle, sheep etc. Before doing so however he inquired of young Walsh whether he would like to know who it was that was responsible for the loss of cattle etc on his father’s farm. Young Walsh said he would and there and then the Ballyvourney man split the hazel stick a rod lengthwise to within an inch or two of the far end. He then requested young Walsh to look along the hazel rod and on doing so, to his surprise he saw the image of a woman – a next door neighbour of his. She it was who was apparently responsible for the loss of cattle, sheep etc. on Walsh’s farm. The hazel rod was thrust into the ground, and from that day forth everything went well on the farm of Walsh and he began to prosper as he himself said. This was related to me in all sincerity by Walsh, and it would be an insult to him to question the matter. This Walsh is almost 70 years of age.” (Source) Because of the hazels relation to fairies it is considered to be extremely bad luck to burn hazel wood.

Foraging Hazelnuts

Foraging hazelnuts can be a delightful and rewarding experience. Hazel trees (Corylus species) are native to the UK and can be found in woodlands, hedgerows, and even some urban areas. Here’s a brief guide on foraging hazelnuts: Season and timing: Hazelnuts are typically ready for harvest in the late summer or early autumn, usually from August to October. Keep an eye on the trees during this period to catch them at their peak ripeness and before the squirrels see them! Locating hazelnut trees: Look for hazelnut trees in woodlands, hedgerows, parks, and other natural areas. They prefer well-drained soil and partial shade. Hazel trees often grow in clusters or stands, and their distinctive leaves and catkins (flowers) make them relatively easy to spot. Harvesting hazelnuts: Hazelnuts are ready for harvest when the husks turn brown or golden and begin to split open. You can gather fallen nuts from the ground or gently shake the branches to dislodge ripe nuts. Collect the nuts along with their husks to help protect them during transportation. Husking and processing: Once you have collected hazelnuts, remove the husks by hand or use a glove to rub them off. It’s essential to handle the nuts gently to avoid damaging them. After husking, let the nuts dry for a few weeks, or cure, in a well-ventilated area to reduce moisture content and enhance their flavour and shelf life. Storing and using hazelnuts: Store dried hazelnuts in a cool, dry place in airtight containers to prevent them from becoming rancid. Roasting the nuts can enhance their flavour and make them easier to shell. You can enjoy hazelnuts as a snack, use them in baking, or incorporate them into various dishes like salads, pestos, or desserts.

Edible Delights: Hazelnuts in British Cuisine

Hazelnuts, also known as cobnuts or filberts, are the true culinary treasure of the Hazel tree. In the UK, they have been cherished for their unique flavour and versatility in various traditional dishes and confections. Let’s explore some of the ways in which hazelnuts are used in UK cuisine: Snacking: Hazelnuts are a delightful snack on their own, providing a satisfying crunch and a rich, nutty taste. They can be enjoyed roasted, salted, or simply raw. Baking: Hazelnuts are a popular ingredient in baking, adding texture and flavour to a wide array of recipes. From classic hazelnut cakes and cookies to indulgent chocolate-hazelnut spreads, they bring a delightful nuttiness to sweet treats. Roasting and Cooking: Roasted Hazelnuts add depth and a nutty aroma to savoury dishes. They can be finely chopped and used as a coating for meats, added to stuffing mixes, or sprinkled over salads and vegetable dishes. Nut Butters: Hazelnuts can be ground into a smooth and creamy nut butter, offering a delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional spreads. Hazelnut butter is a versatile ingredient, perfect for spreading on toast, adding to smoothies, or using as a dip for fruits and vegetables. Traditional Delicacies: In the UK, Hazelnuts have been used in traditional delicacies such as the famous Kentish cobnut tart, where the nuts are combined with sweet pastry and a rich filling. Additionally, Hazelnuts have been a key ingredient in Christmas confections like marzipan and nougat.

The Fairy Bible, by Teresa Moorey

THE CELTIC TREE ORACLE by Liz and Colin Murray

Tree Magick, by Gillian Kemp

LESSON OF Hazel, from The Wisdom of Trees by Jane Gifford

Celtic Moon sign – Hazel Moon Written by Kim Rogers-Gallagher, and Llewellyn’s Witches’ Datebook 2000   The hazel produces its nuts in fall, after having spent the year building the inner strength to protect them. The shell of this nut is so hard, in fact, and contains its treasure so well, that is was the inspiration for the phrase “in a nutshell.”  Born under the sign of the hazel tree, you also have an inner treasure to offer – the fruits of your knowledge. Your wisdom and ability to communicate ideas make you capable of transforming the thoughts and opinions of others. Be careful how you wield your word-wizardry. Born under this sign, you are wise and have the ability to communicate ideas, making you capable of transforming the thoughts and opinions of others.  This is the best time of year to focus on gaining wisdom and absorbing knowledge. Cast spells to heighten your senses and concentration.   Hazelnut Tree, The Extraordinary: charming, undermining, very understanding, knows how to make an impression, active fighter for social cause, popular, moody and capricious lover, honest and tolerant partner, precise sense of judgment

I honor the energy of hazel, the tree of wisdom.

Sources: we are just compiling information for our book of shadows. the credit goes to the sources below

https://www.wildfoodie.co.uk/post/hazel-tree-hazelnuts-identification http://www.thegoddesstree.com/trees/Hazel.htm https://celticjewelry.com/blogs/celtic-tree-zodiac/august-the-hazel-tree https://www.theheartofritual.com/post/the-hazel-tree-in-irish-magic-witchcraft-and-folklore Llewellyn’s Complete Book of Correspondences by Sandra Kynes.