December 25th - January 20th
Sign ~~ Beth (Gaelic) The Birch Tree
Beth (BEH), birch - The silver birch (Betula pendula Roth) is the most common tree birch in much of Europe. It grows up to 100 feet high, but is more often found in spreading clumps on sandy soils. It is one of the first trees to colonize an area after a mature forest is cut; this is probably a large part of its symbolic connection with new beginnings. It is cultivated in North America, often under the name of weeping birch. The common birch (B. pubescens Ehrh.) is almost as widespread as the silver birch, but grows primarily on acid or peaty soils. It can reach 65 feet in height. Birches are members of the Birch family (Betulaceae).
Symbol ~~ The White Stag
Character of the Birch Tree: There are two distinct types of Birch Tree people, and this division relates to all tree signs. The New Moon Character is associated with the first two weeks of a sign and the Full Moon character with the last two weeks - throughout the signs. The New Moon character has a more impulsive and emotional nature, but is inclined to be subjective or introverted. Their positive traits of character are shown by their resolve or faith in themselves in overcoming all obstacles. New Moon people born under the Birch Tree sign are therefore more tenacious in pursuing their objectives in life. The Full Moon character has a clarity of purpose combined with a visionary nature and is inclined to be more objective or extroverted. Their negative traits, however, hinge around a lack of reality that clouds their judgment. According to Druidic belief, the birch tree represented the seed potential of all growth, therefore, astrologically Birch Tree people have great personal potential, like the Celtic deity Taliesin, which nevertheless requires great persistence in overcoming personal setbacks.