The origins of bottle trees trace back to Central Africa as early as the 9th century. When enslaved Africans were brought to the American South, they carried this tradition with them. In their new environment, the bottle tree evolved as a fusion of African spiritual beliefs and local customs. Today, it remains a strong symbol of protection, cultural heritage, and ancestral reverence, particularly in Southern African American communities.

The choice of glass bottles is not arbitrary. Folklore holds that evil spirits are attracted to the bright, reflective surfaces of the bottles. As the spirits enter the bottles, they become trapped inside. The sunlight seals them in, while the wind blowing through the necks produces haunting whistles—thought to be the cries of the captured spirits. This practice served both as spiritual protection and as a reminder of unseen forces.

Bottle trees were often placed near homes, gardens, or graveyards to ward off negative energy. Each bottle—often repurposed from household items—carries its own story, and their placement was a ritual act of intention and belief. The tradition reflects a deep connection to the spiritual world and the power of visual symbolism.

Today, bottle trees have spread beyond their cultural roots, embraced for both their beauty and mysterious charm. Yet for many, they remain a powerful testament to resilience, faith, and the enduring influence of ancestral traditions.