A holy tree worshipped throughout history
Oak is one of the most characteristic wood species. The tall and very thick trunk, rough bark and long lobed leaves are unmistakable for anyone who has ever seen an Oak tree. Its seeds — the smooth acorns with their cup-like structure – are also easily recognized. The shape, leaves and acorns of the tree are used as symbols of companies and organizations all over the world.
The fact that Oaks can become so old perhaps contributes to them being regarded as holy and worshipped by the Greeks, the Celts, the Vikings and others. Oak was a symbol for Zeus, king of the Greek gods, Jupiter, the Roman equivalent, and Thor, Viking God of Thunder. The word “Oak” is derived from the Norse word igja, which means “veneration”.
Kährs in the same landscape as the oldest Oak in Sweden
The Rumskulla Oak, the oldest Oak tree in Sweden, is situated 80 miles (130 km) north of Kährs’ head office. This tree is a thousand years old and has a circumference of nearly 46 feet (14 m). The Rumskulla Oak became protected in 1924.
Since the mid-19th century Swedish law has stated that for every Oak tree that is felled at least two new ones must be planted. To this day, there are rules on how many acorns can be picked. You are allowed to pick only as many acorns as can be fitted into a mitten.