Evergreens symbolise eternal life, and for hundreds of years we have practised the art of bringing the outside, inside; hanging them in our windows and doorways.
But what are the Evergreens of Yule, the sacred plants of the Winter Solstice? Please note that some of these plants are very poisonous.
Holly
A protective plant due to its spiky, barbed nature; holly is seen to guard against evil spirits, and is used to bring good luck to the home at Yule. Water infused with holly was once sprinkled on newborn infants for luck and protection (“holly water”), such is its magickal and protective qualities. Holly is sacred to Holle, a figure also known as Old Mother Frost, and represents everlasting light and life force energy. It is seen as a good luck charm for men.
Ivy
A symbol of immortality, ivy is magickally paired to holly, as seen in the festive song “The Holly and the Ivy”. It is seen as a good luck charm for women, and with its spiral pattern of growth, ivy symbolises the concept of eternity. It is often fashioned into wreaths and garlands. Magickal correspondences for ivy include healing and protection.
Mistletoe
Another decorative (albeit poisonous) herb for the home, magickal correspondences for mistletoe often include protection, love, fertility and health. Because it grows betweeen earth and sky, it is useful for all sorts of liminal workings, and is considered to hold deep magick. Hung from a doorway it is a useful tool for gathering kisses! It has long believed to be protective against fires, which is helpful during the winter season.
Pine
Making their way into our homes as Christmas Trees, the branches of pines bring comfort and joy. Cones from pines have historically been gathered to be used as charms to increase fertility. Pine needles can be used in incense for purification and protection, and other common magickal associations related to pine include healing, fertility and abundance.
Yew
A tree of regeneration and rebirth, the yew is associated with eternal life. It is also deeply connected to raising the dead, the ancestors and their spiritual realms (perhaps due to its extremely toxic nature).
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