Telling the Truth

English Oak in Summer

This year I chose a tree calendar to hang above my desk.  Every month I turn the page to a new month and a new photo.

January features an imposing English Oak in winter, standing in a snow-coated field.  The branches, twigs and trunks seem to be partially outlined with a dusty icing of light snow.  The rough bark skeleton of tree limbs and trunks is visible, along with signs of twiggy new growth getting ready for spring.

To view the photo used in my calendar, click here.  It’s well worth it. The summer image above is also magnificent.  Even though all English Oaks aren’t this gorgeous, you can see how the presence of this tree with its outstretched branches and leafy foliage dominates the field.

Why the farewell?  Because I’ve grown attached to this photo and the significance of this particular tree.  It’s a hospitable tree, and I have hospitality on my mind right now.

The English Oak keeps its doors open night and day, even in winter.  The most heavy concentrations grow in southern and central Britain.  Many consider it the most English of all trees in Britain.

According to legend, an English Oak offered shelter in its branches to Charles II as he fled Oliver Cromwell’s Roundheads.  Charles II also had strategic help, it seems, from a protector who supplied ample beer and cheese.  Because of the legend, and because of the tree’s historic role in British shipbuilding, it’s also known as the ‘Royal Oak.’

Whether the legend is true or not, The English Oak offers hospitality year in and out.  It provides cover and nesting places for birds, along with food for birds, insects, rodents, deer and other living creatures.  During hot weather it offers shade for bluebells and primroses.  Unfortunately, the English Oak tree faces threats from pests and diseases, and indirectly threatens human health.  To find out more, click here.

This is just for fun and information.  A bit of interesting history and background that connects with nature’s hospitality and British legend.  Thanks for reading!

© Elouise Renich Fraser, 29 January 2015
Image:  http://www.imgarcade.com, English Tree in Summer