An abnormal growth on tamarisk tree that is created when a gall-wasp deposits eggs on the tree. The tree envelops the eggs, forming a nut-like structure. The mature insects bore through the gall to escape. Tamarisk galls are high in tannins which are used to tan leather.
Readers, please enjoy this guest blog post by Sandra Kynes, author of several books, including The Herb Gardener's Essential Guide, Plant Magic, and the new Witches' Encyclopedia of Magical Plants, among many others.
Although a few old books...