What is a Burl?

A burl is a growth that results from damage done to the tree on which it is found. Round, knotty, and ranging in size from very small to exceptionally large, burls are created when their tree undergoes stress or suffers from a disease. They are typically found in the roots of their tree and must be removed carefully when the tree is processed so as to not kill it while doing so. Burls exhibit different grain patterns from those found in the rest of the tree, patterns that often result in striking interlocking grain structures. Because of this, burls are attractive materials for crafts, frames, household items, or any other product for which aesthetics are a priority.