June 10th - July 7th

Sign ~~ Duir (Gaelic) The Oak Tree

Duir (DOO-r), oak - The oak of myth and legend is the common oak (Quercus robur L.). It is sometimes called the great oak, which is a translation of its Latin name (robur is the root of the English word "robust"). It grows with ash and beech in the lowland forests, and can reach a height of 150 feet and age of 800 years. Along with ashes, oaks were heavily logged throughout recent millennia, so that the remaining giant oaks in many parts of Europe are but a remnant of forests past. Like most other central and northern European trees, common oaks are deciduous, losing their leaves before Samhain and growing new leaves in the spring so that the trees are fully clothed by Bealltaine. Common oaks are occasionally cultivated in North America, as are the similar native white oak, valley oak, and Oregon oak. Oaks are members of the Beech family (Fagaceae).

Symbol ~~ The White Horse or Golden Wheel

Character of the Oak Tree:  Oak Tree characters have a breadth of vision.  Their greatest personal asset is a sense of optimism and the ability to speak the truth no matter what the consequences may be. A lack of discretion can, however, be their weak point.  People born during the first two weeks come under the New Moon phase and they are inclined to take financial risks and make personal commitments which cannot be easily consolidated.  The positive aspects of character are show with their natural powers of leadership and the ability to rise above the human vice of greed or avarice.  There is an element of self-sacrifice operating within both lunar phases or divisions of the sign, but people born during the last two weeks of the Full Moon phase are less inclined to make financial losses.  People born during the New Moon are generally more flamboyant characters and rather glory-seeking individuals.  Their positive aspects are shown in their generosity of spirit, an instinctive sense of survival, and creative skills.