Silver

Silver the Birch Tree Fairy

Silver and Downy have fine branches, tiny leaves and grow catkins. Birch trees will grow in poor soils, but like a sunny position. 

Silver is one of the sacred trees in Celtic Mythology, symbolising new beginnings and protection. The first letter of, and the first message in, Ogham was on birch to Lugh. The inscription was seven ‘B’s telling him his wife would be taken seven times to fairyland if he didn't use the Birch! 

At Samhain birch twigs were used to drive out the spirits of the old year and Besoms were witches' broomsticks, used in their shamanic flights, perhaps after taking mushrooms found in birch woods. 

At Imbolc, the white bark is used to symbolise the return of light along with candles. At Beltane, (Britain not Ireland - May Day) birch is used as a Maypole. On Midsummer's Eve birch was hung over doors to guard and bring good luck. 

The God of Love, Aenghus, Midir's fosterson, is also associated with the Birch as both are celebrating the Sun and carry ancient wisdom but appear forever young. 

Toghers across bog were made from birch. It is used to make plywood, handles, toys, bobbins, spools and reels. The leaves and sap are diuretic and antiseptic and can be used to treat skin complaints. Cradles made from birch stopped the fairies swapping the baby for a changeling.