Show pageOld revisionsBacklinksBack to top This page is read only. You can view the source, but not change it. Ask your administrator if you think this is wrong. ======The Protective Rowan Tree====== =====Wand Wood Information===== * **Type:** [[Wand]] Wood * **Notable Properties:** Highly protective, suited to pure-hearted [[wizards]] and [[witches]] * **Associated Arts:** [[Defensive Magic]], [[Charms]] =====Description and Magical Properties===== The Rowan tree is a type of wood used in the construction of [[wands]]. Highly sought after by [[wandmakers]] like [[Garrick Ollivander]], rowan has a well-deserved reputation for being more protective than any other wand wood. It is said to render defensive [[Charms]] and enchantments especially strong and difficult to break. According to the extensive notes of [[Garrick Ollivander]], rowan wands are best placed with a [[witch]] or [[wizard]] who is clear-headed and pure of heart. This wood's inherent protective qualities mean that it is a poor choice for anyone who practices the [[Dark Arts]]. In his entire career, [[Ollivander]] noted that he could not recall a single instance of selling a rowan wand to a [[witch]] or [[wizard]] who subsequently turned to evil. He stated, //"you will never meet a wizard or witch who went over to the Dark Side who possessed a rowan wand."// (DH24) While sometimes accused of lacking power due to its association with virtuous owners, this is a misconception. In the hands of its rightful owner, a rowan wand is the equal of any other in a [[duel]], and is often more skillful. (Pottermore) The key properties of rowan wood include: * **Protection:** It provides a significant boost to all manner of [[Defensive Magic]]. * **Purity:** It is strongly associated with, and works best for, the pure of heart. * **Resilience:** It is not easily swayed by or used for the [[Dark Arts]]. * **Power:** It is a capable and powerful wand wood for duelling when matched with the right owner. (Pottermore) =====Role in the Story===== The properties of rowan wood are explained in detail during [[Harry Potter]]'s stay at [[Shell Cottage]] in //Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows//. After being rescued from [[Malfoy Manor]], [[Garrick Ollivander]] discusses the principles of [[Wandlore]] with [[Harry]], [[Ron Weasley]], and [[Hermione Granger]]. When discussing the wand [[Ron]] took from a [[Snatcher]], [[Ollivander]] mentions his fondness for rowan wands and their protective nature. This conversation serves as a crucial moment of exposition, deepening the trio's understanding of how [[wands]] function and their connection to a [[wizard]]'s morality and intentions, a theme central to the final book. =====Known Wands===== While no character in the original seven novels is explicitly stated to own a rowan wand, the following characters from supplementary materials are known to possess them: * **[[Queenie Goldstein]]**: Possessed a wand of rowan wood with an unknown core. (Fantastic Beasts) * **[[Rowan Khanna]]**: A student at [[Hogwarts]] who possessed a 13-inch, pliable rowan wand with a [[Unicorn Hair]] core. (video game) =====Etymology and Symbolism===== In real-world European folklore, particularly Celtic mythology, the rowan tree (also known as "witchwood") has long been revered as a tree of protection against evil spirits, malevolent [[witchcraft]], and dark enchantments. Twigs of rowan were often placed over doorways or carried as protective talismans. J.K. Rowling's choice to imbue rowan wands with powerful defensive magic and an affinity for the pure of heart directly reflects this historical symbolism. =====Behind the Scenes===== Much of the detailed information regarding the properties of rowan as a wand wood was expanded upon by J.K. Rowling in her writings for the Pottermore (now Wizarding World) website. These notes confirmed and elaborated on the brief but significant description provided by [[Garrick Ollivander]] in //Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows//.
