Identification: nodules on Western Hemlock

hello.

i would like help in identifying the cause of these nodules that cover one of our Western Hemlock trees. these nodules have two levels. with a little finger pressure, the outer level/cap comes off. here, i've flicked off two of these nodules. with significantly more pressure, the entire nodule can be removed. whether the cap or the entire nodule is removed, a reddish pink surface is revealed. 80% of the trunk is affected, and the nodules extend to some of the branches. the base of the tree looks healthy to me. its foliage appears fine, having taken part in the early summer emergence of new growth. the top of the tree appears to be growing.

thank you.

mark.

 

A genetic abnormality / mutation, a bit like benign tumors. They won't hurt the tree.

 

hi, Michael.

thank you for the assessment! is there a name for this condition?

mark.

 

Never heard of a specific name for it, no.

 

thank you again, Michael.