A burr (or burl) on the trunk of a silver birch tree.
A large burr (or burl) on the trunk of a silver birch tree (Betula pendula), in Belgium. The reason why burrs form is unknown. They are possibly the work of a virus. Burrs are rare growths where hundreds of tiny branches start to grow, and the complex patterns that form in burrs are the result of lots of dormant bud formations. Because they are so rare and form such pretty patterns in the wood they are highly prized by woodturners. Burrs are also really difficult to work as there is no one direction of grain. Therefore, anything made out of burr wood is very expensive.
Size: 3543px × 5328px
Location: Flanders, Belgium
Photo credit: © Alistair Scott / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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