April 29, 1998. Copyright, 1998, Graphic News. All rights reserved

Astrology captions
By Oliver Burkeman

NB Ð The following copy comprises background information on the animal symbolism of each sign of the zodiac, together with its ruling planet and associated gems and plants. They are not horoscopes!


ARIES:  March 21 Ð April 20
Aries, the Ram, leads the astrological herd: it is, traditionally, the first sign of the zodiacal year. The symbol resembles the animalÕs horns, but has also been thought to portray a fount of energy, since Arians lead their lives energetically, straightforwardly and with vigour.
Ruling planet: Mars Ð which instils the energetic, aggressive qualities associated with the mythological god of War.
Associated gemstones: Diamond
Associated plants: Thistle, honeysuckle, hawthorn, bryony


TAURUS:  April 21 Ð May 21
Born under the sign representing the bull, Taureans share many of the traits traditionally ascribed to that creature: determination, possessiveness and a strong will. As one historical astrologer wrote: ÔHast thou seen a man who argues with a wall? He is a fool; but he who argues with Sun in Taurus is even greater.Õ 
Ruling planet: The moderating influence of Venus, characterised by friendliness and warmth, can lead normally stable and secure Taureans into hopelessly romantic dreaming.
Associated gemstones: Emerald
Associated plants: Foxglove, cypress, apple tree, violet


GEMINI:  May 22 Ð June 21
The sign of communication, Gemini is symbolised by twins: human relationships occupy Gemineans more than those born under any other sign. But their need for contact and friendship is offset by a cunning and rationality that can lapse into harsh criticism of others. 
Ruling planet: MercuryÕs intellectual and critical influence fits well with the argumentative aspects of Gemini Ð though it can intensify them into an objectionable nature.
Associated gemstones: Agate
Associated plants: Hazel, lily-of-the-valley, lavender, fern


CANCER:  June 22 Ð July 22
CancerÕs symbol, a crab, wears a protective shell Ð and Cancerians are known for their love of protecting and caring for others. Armoured on the outside, but soft within, those born under this sign display a seemingly contradictory combination of shrewd caution and sentimentality.
Ruling planet: The Moon Ð a planet, according to ancient astrology Ð is an imaginative sign, encouraging the instinctive, intuitive behaviour which comes easily to Cancerians.
Associated gemstones: Pearl
Associated plants: Geranium, white rose, maple, cow parsley


LEO:  July 23 Ð August 23
Flamboyant and creative, but sometimes dogmatic and aggressive, Leos are typified by the traits traditionally associated with the king of the beasts. Rulers of the human realm as well, they require positions of leadership and high prestige in order to feel properly fulfilled.
Ruling planet: The Sun, counted as a planet by astrologers, bestows joy, vitality and expressiveness on the Leo personality Ð sometimes to too great a degree, making them egocentric and pompous.
Associated gemstones: Ruby
Associated plants: Marigold, rosemary, palm tree, bay leaf


VIRGO:  August 24 Ð September 22
Portrayed in different eras as the Madonna and as a voluptuous nude, the history of Virgo is the history of changing conceptions of femininity. Those born under this sign are self-deprecating and pay great attention to detail Ð but perfectionism can prove a handicap.
Ruling planet: Mercury Ð also GeminiÕs ruling planet Ð complements the argumentative nature of Gemineans, but tends to make Virgoans anxious and tense.
Associated gemstones: Sardonyx
Associated plants: Buttercup, forget-me-not, nut trees, oak


LIBRA:  September 23 Ð October 23
The balanced scales encapsulate perfectly the Libran personality: civilised, harmonious and methodical, they seek equilibrium and quiet discipline in all areas of their lives. Too easily, however, this can lapse into passivity Ð or even laziness.
Ruling planet: Venus, the planet of love and friendship, harmonises well with LibransÕ dislike of hurting others and their need for companionship.
Associated gemstones: Sapphire, jade
Associated plants: Rose, bluebell, daisy, barley


SCORPIO:  October 24 Ð November 22
Scorpio, the Scorpion, is often considered the ÔworstÕ of the zodiac signs Ð a deadly reserve of poisonous energy. But while determined and powerful, Scorpians can use their energy to positive effect: they are emotional and passionate people who can use their keen sense of purpose to change the world for the better.
Ruling planet: Pluto, which tends to be a negative influence on Scorpians, is associated with secretiveness and an over-critical nature.
Associated gemstones: Opal
Associated plants: Rhododendron, blackthorn, onion, catmint


SAGITTARIUS:  November 23 Ð December 21
Sagittarius is represented by a centaur drawing a bow, bringing together the intellectual and philosophical ÔhumanÕ elements and the appetitive, more basic desires associated with the animal body. Sagittarians are generally bright, happy personalities, but this can manifest itself in tactlessness and irresponsibility. 
Ruling planet: JupiterÕs extravagant and optimistic influence, combined with SagittariansÕ natural love of risk-taking, leads to active, expressive personalities Ð and sometimes foolhardiness.
Associated gemstones: Topaz
Associated plants: Dandelion, carnation, mulberry tree, silver birch


CAPRICORN:  December 22 Ð January 20
Capricorn, the goat, is represented with the tail of a fish, hinting at the hidden emotion, historically symbolised by water, which bubbles beneath the practical, disciplined and reserved exteriors of those born under this sign.
Ruling planet: Saturn, instilling stability and control, but also a selfish streak.
Associated gemstones: Turquoise and amethyst
Associated plants: Pine cones, willows, elms, pansies


AQUARIUS:  January 21 Ð February 18
Aquarius is symbolised by waves, or a human pouring water from a vase Ð but this is no ordinary water. It is thought to be a mystical life-force, giving rise to the vigorously individualistic traits typical of this optimistic, caring, but unpredictable sign.
Ruling planet: Uranus, a rebellious influence which encourages AquariansÕ natural originality, but which can quickly descend into disruptiveness.
Associated gemstones: Aquamarine
Associated plants: Orchid, elderberry, fruit trees, chilli


PISCES:  February 19 Ð March 20
The two fish of Pisces face in opposite directions Ð like many characteristics of those born under this sign. They are skilled and artistic, but often unwilling to let their talents flourish; they are keen to help others, but in so doing, often forget to look after themselves.
Ruling planet: NeptuneÕs influence makes dreamers and idealists of Pisceans, though carelessness and indolence are the inevitable flipside.
Associated gemstones: Moonstone
Associated plants: Moss, chicory, pussy willow, waterlily




Sources: ParkersÕ Astrology (J & D Parker, Dorling Kindersley 1991); Zodiac Signs (F Goodman, Brian Trodd 1990)