A strange, knobby lump on a tree trunk is usually a tree burl, an abnormal growth of woody tissue caused by stress, injury, infections, or other triggers. Although it may look alarming, a burl is not necessarily a disease, and many trees continue growing healthily for decades with one. Burl wood is highly prized by woodworkers for its beautiful, swirling grain, which is used to make furniture, bowls, and decorative items. If you discover a burl in your yard, leave it intact and monitor the tree’s health, consulting a certified arborist if you notice cracks, decay, or declining growth….SEE BELOW
