Anyone know what this is?

I saw this growing in the hedgerow along the road. I'm not even sure whether it's a plant or a nest. Whatever, it looked a bit odd.

 

Hi Mandy,

Its a Robins Pin Cushion. A gall caused by an insect causing the plant to mutate.

 

That is weird, never seen anything like it, you're a mine of information Ziggy.

 

Oh there's plenty more rubbish stored in here:pathead:
I think that one is confined to rose bushes but there are lots of different galls of all shapes & sizes.

The Oak Apple gall is caused by a type of wasp. There are oval shaped ones on Willow leaves and Birch trees are affected by Witches Broom galls, which make the twigs go haywire.

 

Well, you learn something every day. Thanks Ziggy.
Perhaps you should have your own section: 'Ask Ziggy.'

 

:D I can't play the guitar and sing like Ask Elvis does though:D

 

Why not!!!

 

I'll give it a go then.

 

:runhills:

Mrs Chopper