Willow Tree Symbolism Facts & Meaning: Zodiac, Superstitions, Dreams, and Myths
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Willow Tree Facts
As described by Taylor Swift in her song “Willow,” the Willow Tree is a flexible but strong tree that can adapt to any weather. It is unique for its drooping branches and leaves. The tree usually grows near bodies of water which earned its name “Weeping Willow.”
The roots and trunk of the tree are tough and thick but the branches are slender and supple. The Willow Tree grows in cold and northern temperate regions.
There are 350 species of the Willow Tree which vary in sizes. The Willow Tree is part of the genus Salix, which means “Willow” in Latin.
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Willow Tree Uses
The many uses of Willow Trees were discovered since the earliest civilizations. For its medicinal uses, the Willow Tree is believed to have been used in Mesopotamia to treat infertility.
In ancient Egypt, the Willow Tree is one of the ingredients in making medicine as mentioned in the Papyrus Ebers or the document containing Egyptian herbal knowledge. In the Papyrus Ebers, the Willow Tree is mixed with various herbs for use in the treatment of nervous system, cardiac, and physical weakness.
In 1653, Nicholas Culpeper included the Willow Tree in his book “The Complete Herbal”. Although the recipes in the book are experimental, his suggestions with the use of the bark of the Willow Tree to treat warts, corns, and other skin conditions is accurate considering that the Willow Tree contains salicylic acid. Modern cosmetics, in fact, uses extract from the bark of the Willow Tree to exfoliate the skin, treat acne, manage oiliness of the skin, and refine pores of the skin.
The Willow Tree is considered as one of the river trees. It does well in moist and wet soil. As such, it can be used to address soil erosion because of its ability to sprout and root in barren and unstable soils.
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Willow Tree History
According to some sources, the Willow Tree originated in China and Asia. Through trading, it found its way to Europe and North America. However, fossils of the genus Salix were discovered in North America and Europe, the oldest fossil was traced back to the Eocene period or 56 million years ago.
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Willow Tree Positive Symbolism
The Willow Tree is a representation of new life and fertility. This is because the Willow Tree can grow up in any kind of soil and weather. When a single Willow Tree is planted, it can keep on reproducing on its own and reforest a whole lot. The way the Willow Tree sprouts on unstable soil is a testament to represent that an individual can grow and achieve new beginnings despite difficulties.
Another symbol of the Willow Tree is resilience and flexibility. The branches and leaves of the Willow Tree may appear thin and frail. But do not be deceived because the Willow Tree’s branches are strong and do not break easily. Withstanding strong winds is something they are known for.
In artworks, the Willow Tree is usually portrayed to convey sorrow and tranquility. Certainly, the Willow Tree is a symbol of peace and serenity. In times of difficulties and even when we are feeling lonely, the Willow Tree reminds us to just sway with the wind and be calm.
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Willow Tree Negative Symbolism
Asian countries associate the Willow Tree with grief and mourning. For one, the Willow Tree lives in moist and desolate places which gives off a heavy and sad ambiance. Also, when rain falls down the leaves of the tree, it appears to be crying or weeping.
The Willow Tree is also associated with witchcraft. In Europe, the tree is considered to suppress sexual urges and decreases fertility. This is because the Willow Tree is a virgin tree as it produces flowers but does not produce fruits.
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Willow Tree Cultural Symbolism
The Feast of Tabernacles, or Sukkot, is one of the three Pilgrimage Festivals of the Jews. The tabernacle is a structure made of plants, one of which are branches of the Willow Tree. The structure made from the Willow Tree is used as a temporary dwelling by farmers during the harvest time. This tabernacle also commemorates the life of the Jews when they escaped slavery in Egypt and travelled through the desert to Canaan.
In some countries like Europe, Ukraine, and Bulgaria, churches use branches of the Willow Tree instead of palm leaves to celebrate Palm Sunday.
In some Asian countries like Japan, the Willow Tree is believed to attract ghosts.
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Willow Tree Zodiac Sign
Celtic zodiac lists the Willow Tree as one of its druid signs. The Celtic Tree governs people conceived on April 15 to May 12. People born under the Willow Tree are sensitive and perceptive people. However, they can also be moody, restless, and aggressive. Generally, they love their family and empathetic to people.
The Willow Tree is ruled by the moon and has the water element.
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Willow Tree in Dreams
Willow Tree in dreams is not a good omen. It may be a sign of an impending unfortunate event. It can also mean that you are suppressing your sad feelings and the appearance of the Willow Tree is a sign for you to take a break and find peace. Although negative, this period of sorrow and grief is necessary and will not last long. In time, it will lead you to growth and new beginning.
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Willow Tree Omens and Superstitions
Willow Trees have been used in magic and divination. There were allegedly used by witches in casting spells and making wands. In some cultures, however, the Willow Tree has properties that ward off evil.
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Willow Tree Mythology and Folklore
In Chinese mythology, branches of the Willow Tree are used to drive away evil spirits. During the Qingming Festival, the ruler of the underworld allows the spirit of dead people to roam the earth. Willow Trees are used on gates and doors to prevent unwanted spirits and evil spirits from entering houses.
In Greek mythology, the Willow Tree is linked to Hecate. Hecate is the Greek goddess of magic, withcraft, moon, and necromancy. Since the Willow Tree is associated with the moon and water, the Willow Tree is devoted to her.
