Rowan Tree....

In our local area I've noticed that this particular tree, a Rowan, or Mountain Ash as it's sometimes called, always takes on it's autumn colours before the rest of the other Rowans. I look out for it as one of the first signs of autumn.

The rest of the Rowans are still green but heavy with their red berries. I was told that the berries made a good chutney to go with cold meats. Don't try this...I was lied to!

In the UK, Rowan trees are steeped in ancient folk law. The red of the berries is a protection against witches and evil. And the berries have a pentagram or five pointed star at their tops, an ancient symbol of protection from evil.