Weird Stuff in Tree

[WVH1977]

I was working with one of my bird dogs in the woods today and ran across this black stuff on a beach tree. Anyone have an idea what it is?

 

[ruffdog]

Black Knot Fungus.

 

[WVH1977]

Black Knot Fungus.

Does it hurt the trees?

 

[japody]

Does it hurt the trees?

Is black knot fungus harmful?

While mature trees can handle the fungus, those with weak branches or the trees that are younger cannot, and the disease can lead to tree death. Black knot fungus is also dangerous because of how quickly it can spread

 

[ruffdog]

New spores will be released every Spring so cut it out now and burn/dispose of it.

 

[Cycledude]

Similar stuff on White Birch trees is used to make tea that supposedly fights cancer.