Alder
The seventeenth sacred tree is the alder with peeled twigs used for magical purposes as well as dyes. Alder has a white-gray bark with fissures that can become quite deep as the tree ages. It has broad, green leaves with doubled-toothed serrations.
Alder is the tree of fire because its wood burns so hot. Because it is found in low swampy areas, the power of its fire was considered crucial to freeing earth from water. Alder also serves as the patron of dyeing and is important in resurrection and oracles.
Alnus incana
Alder is associated with the letter Fearn of the Ogham alphabet. Alder corresponds to Group VIIA? on the Periodic Table (the third column). This means that it relates to Angry Sadism, the eco-relation (-,0), and the vocabulary of the current balance. Alder is also associated with iodine? and a developmental number of 53.
The magic associated with alder are fire spells and resurrection (or preparation for resurrection):
- fire spells
- ferment
- distill
- light spells
- control wind
- heat spells
- dyeing spells
These magicks are based on the spontaneous combustion implied by a burning anger. Alder has oracular properties as well.
See also Angry Sadism, Holy Grove, Group VIIA?, Woods and Wendings, and Fearn.
— Scotus - 16 Jun 2001
