Question: This shrub was located along a dirt road in Jackman, Maine. The road bordered a alder wetland. The shrub was …
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Question
This shrub was located along a dirt road in Jackman, Maine. The road bordered a alder wetland. The shrub was approximately 5 feet in height. These "cones?" were present at the end of each branch. These shrubs seemed to be numerous in the area. The buds were small and pointed. The terminal "cone" was new to me. Thanks!
Answer
Deer eehrlich, these are galls made by an insect on the tips of branchlets of Salix (willow). These are most commonly found on Salix discolor (pussy willow), but may be on other species. This one in particular is called pine cone willow gall and is created by a species of midge. Best wishes.
