Pihlakas Puu Courses

The Hawthorn Tree, or Pihlakas Puu in Estonian, is a species of deciduous tree that grows throughout Europe, the Mediterranean and parts of Asia. As its other common name, the Quickthorn Tree, implies, its branches and thorns have long been used to create hedges and fencing. Hawthorns are capable of growing up to 15 meters in height and countless stories are embedded in the bark. The tree has been associated with fertility, joy, and hope, and has been a feature of Estonian culture for centuries. The Pihlakas Puu has strong religious symbolism in Estonian culture and is associated with the pre-Christian fertility goddess, Perkele. It was said that if a couple clasped hands around a pihlakas tree and made a wish the wish would come true. It is also said that a dream or a song that is revealed to you while sleeping under a Hawthorn Tree will be fulfilled. The bright white flowers of the tree were used to decorate cemeteries and its berries were boiled to make a tonic for invalids. In Estonian folklore, the Pihlakas Puu is seen as a guardian of the home and forest. It can also be found growing near castles, ruins and other ancient sites, it is said to possess a special protection for them. Many Estonian folk tales feature the magical powers of the Hawthorn Tree, often as the only tree that can withstand the assaults of evil forces. The Pihlakas Puu is a symbol of fertility, new beginnings and hope, while in the past it was used to build protective boundaries. Throughout Estonian culture, the magical power of the Hawthorn tree is still present and its strong symbolism still lingers.