The blackthorn tree (Prunus spinosa) is prominent in British and Irish folklore and is said to be a fairy tree imbued with protective powers. With its thorny and dark appearance, it has often been associated with witches and an omen of misfortune, but it is also known for its strong powers of protection against evil spirits.
It is often planted around homes and fields to prevent intruders. In Irish and Scottish folklore blackthorn is linked to the fairy world, and some believed it to be a gateway to the fairy realm.
An old English New Year’s Eve tradition was to weave a wreath of blackthorn twigs, scorch it in the fire, burn it in the fields, and then make a new one the next day to bring luck for the New Year. Toss the blackthorn tips into a well to discover whether or not your love is true. If the tips sink, the love is false.
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