I have found this green ball type thing in my backyard. I am do not pretend to know much about horticulture, but trying to learn more. This green ball, was some kind of 'fungus' I thought, then after researching a little more, I am wondering if it might be a 'fruit' from a tree or a seed ball. The only problem is we only have a pecan tree, oak tree and what I think might be called a hackberry tree. They fall green this time of year, and then as summer comes, I believe they turn brown and become hollow. Presently, if you good a good sized one, there are white hairlike things growing in the inside. Any help is appreciated.
Can you post a picture? It sounds like mature oak galls, but I've never known those to fall off of the tree.
May well be from a Sweet Gum tree in your neighbourhood, or could be what they call Ball Moss (which is neither a ball nor a moss, but actually a Tillandsia).
I do have a picture, but don't have the wire to download until my husband returns from a trip! I am not exactly sure what tree it is coming from - I only know we only have a pecan and oak tree in that side of the yard - which is where these things are usually found. I have never actually witnessed one fall. I believe the Sweet Gum Tree has a spiney/pokey type of ball, doesn't it? We do have some around our neigborhood, but these are definately not those - unless there is an usual smooth variety that I am not aware of. Will post a photo either Sun or Mon. Thanks so much!
Yes, I thought of that also but more information needed. The hackberry might turn out to be Osage orange, although you would think the fruits would be seen on the tree. Also not sure about the timing given, and these usually have a noticeable aroma when opened.
Here is a photo attached. I couldn't get a very good shot, so hopefully this will work. I researched a little, and a gall does seem to be the most likely thing. Can anyone confirm? If so, what in the world are they and is it harmful? Or just kind of cool? Thank you!
Ok. I read up on these things. Not knowing very much about horticulture, etc, I found this to be very interesting. Thanks so much!
