Rowans are trees which are common on the Island. They have long been associated with witchcraft and magic.
In late summer their red berries have tiny 5 pointed pentagrams (an ancient protective symbol) and are believed to protect against evil and enchantment. Having a rowan growing near your house or steading was believed to offer protection, however cutting down or harming a rowan in any way would bring bad luck – a belief that is still widely held today.