Hazel trees are native to Ireland and have been an important part of Irish culture for centuries. But what makes the leaves of this majestic tree so special? In this article, we’ll explore the unique beauty of hazel tree leaves, the history and mythology of this native Irish treasure, and the uses of hazel tree leaves. We’ll also provide tips for identifying and harvesting hazel tree leaves, as well as ways to use them in crafts and recipes. So, let’s dive in and uncover the unique beauty of hazel tree leaves!

Although Larches aren’t native to Ireland (or Britain), it is relatively commonly planted in Ireland. The European Larch is native to mountains of central Europe, upland areas in France, Germany and Austria. Larches have woody trunks & stems, needle leaves and a waxy coating that keeps the leaves from losing water which is all characteristic of conifers. But, unlike other evergreen Conifers, they are deciduous, meaning they drop their leaves for part of the year. It is known to be the only deciduous conifer in Europe & the majority of deciduous conifers in other continents are related to them in one way or another.

In Celtic times, the Birch tree was a symbol of love, with Birch branches frequently being placed above cradles in order to protect the baby within. Birch was also known to symbolise renewal and purification. Commonly known as a ‘Pioneering Tree’, Birch is seen as an opportunist which takes over areas that have been abandoned or have been newly cleared. This was how it spread across Ireland thousands of years ago. 

We know what you’re thinking...

“Sitka Spruce?! That’s a non-native tree, why is there Sitka Spruce in your forests?”

Well, today, we’re going to answer that question by laying out some facts, dispelling some myths, and telling you how powerful a tool the Sitka Spruce can be in making planet earth cool.

Rowan Trees are an often overlooked native Irish tree. Although they are smaller than many other native trees, this does not make them any less beautiful. Typically they grow to a height of about 15 meters. In Irish, Rowan tree can be translated as Caorthann, which is also the Irish Translation for Mountain Ash. This is due to the fact that their leaves are very similar to the common ash tree, however, the trees are not related in any way.

The Alder Tree (Alnus glutinosa) is a native Irish tree, which has quite a history in Irish Folklore and History. It even has played a role in the naming of a number of Irish towns and villages. For example, Ballyfarnon (Béal Átha Fearnáin) in Country Roscommon translates to Mouth of the Ford of the Alder, and County Wexford, the town of Ferns comes from the Irish Word; Fearna (Alder Trees).