Plant Spirit Glyphs

Plant spirit glyphs are symbolic representations of the occult forces, symbolism, characteristics, mythology, folklore, and even personal gnosis (and more) of the plant they represent. They are created in partnership between the individual practitioner and the genius, or consciousness, of a plant- though while they are individual creations, their power can be accessed by others.

The creation of these power symbols combines spirit writing, sigil craft and plant spirit communion. Their designs vary and can be as simple or intricate as one desires, but the less intricate they are, however, the easier they will be to duplicate repeatedly in multiple workings- and they can be used in spell work like any other occult symbol for connecting with the power behind its purpose.

The glyphs are primarily meant to assist in any spell work that is associated with the plant it represents. For example, the glyph of a plant associated with the Underworld could be used as a focal point for inducing trance to descend into the underworld in spirit. They can also be used in rituals when working with the herb to enhance its power, or be used when summoning the spirits associated with the plant. The glyph can also be incorporated when charging plant matter before magical use, or to mark containers for the appropriate herb to help contain and amplify its power while it’s being stored (this can also act as a way to mark certain herbs you do not want others identifying).

Over time these symbols become icons of power for the practitioner, as such Glyphs are charged over time with repeated use, acting as significant conduits to the plant spirit they represent.

Some practitioners may have specific plants as their allies and choose to use their glyphs as power symbols. This would serve to represent the intimate connection with the plant spirit familiar. Like other familiar spirits, the plant spirit familiar will assist the practitioner in many of their workings. They will share the ways that they wish to be worked with moving our hands intuitively.

To create one, first a plant spirit ally must be chosen. It should be a plant that you already have some familiarity with. Prior to beginning the connection to the plant spirit should be called forth to presence. At this point some may choose to drink a tea (if it's safe), burn incense, or apply an oil that contains the herb. The structure of the glyph is then formed intuitively with the help of the plant spirit after deconstructing the plant’s Latin name into simple lines- as if one were making a usual sigil, except we are not going to destroy this creation.

If there is one constant of nature, it is patterns; from spirals, to branches, waves and clouds, and more patterns both great and small can be found all over the natural world in various ways, and are reflected all throughout plants as well. Using the plant as a guide, build upon the sigil by looking at the patterns found within the plant. Its berries and leaves, or the way the petals are shaped. The way the stalks flow, and so on. Use the plant as inspiration to elaborate upon the sigil to create its Glyph.

If you have difficulty, adjust your perspective; observe the plant really carefully. Move away from it, and then walk up to it again using different angles each time. Get in close, looking at the details of branches, leaves, fruit, or nuts. Walk around the plant and see what draws your eye. Spend time doing this. It may take a while, or something about the plant may immediately speak to you. But if your communion is not strong enough, try again later; it doesn’t matter how many sessions it takes in the end.

The new glyph should then be charged with the plant’s energy after its completion. This can be done by putting it in close proximity to the plant, by smoking it with incense made of the plant, or anointing it with oil; a really powerful way is to do this through the use of an ink made from the plant if it has berries, or by creating a strong infusion of the flowers and / or leaves in order to create a kind of water color that can be used to draw the glyph in a ritualized way. Astrological timing can also be utilized when creating these glyphs, as well as any other ritual elements you would like to add to its construction.

Everyone’s glyphs will be stylized differently, but they will all share the same elements linking them together just like the plants they represent.