Elder.
Appearance[]
The tree can be found in the northern and southern hemispheres of the world. The species or groups of the elder tree vary depending on what part of the world you are in. Also, the types of berries that are found on the tree also changes based on where you are at. For example, the red-berried tree is generally found in the colder parts of the northern hemisphere. This group of elder tree is small like a shrub. The European Dwarf Elder is found in parts of Europe, Africa, and Asia and its berries are black. The elder tree has clusters of white or cream coloured flowers that generally bloom in the late spring. Once these clusters are gone, the elder tree will produce small berries that may vary in colour between black, blue-black or red. The flowers of the tree do have a use as they are used to make elderflower liqueur. Likewise, the berries can be used to make wine or jelly.
Properties []
Elder is well known for its regenerative properties, it can easily regrow damaged branches and roots quickly from any part. It represents the end in the beginning and the beginning in the end. It was considered by some as unlucky as it was the abode of witches, but to others it was the tree of second sight that allowed you to see the faery folk. It was a sacred tree and it was not allowed to be damaged in anyway the druids used it both for spells and curses. It was believed that if you bathed your eyes in the sap of the wood it allowed you to see faeries and witches.