Does anyone know what this is growing on oak tree? (mushrooms, trees)

[Ynot]

Our windy day brought down a few dead branches from an oak tree. I went to toss them and my hand encountered something squishy and I saw these things attached to the branch -- looks like raisins. I have never seen anything like this during my 12 years in this area and wondering what it might be. It's been a strange weather year, trees didn't produce any acorns at all which is unusual. Luckily, I didn't see any legs attached, maybe some kind of larvae....

[ClaraC]

I just googled looks like raisins growing on oak branch, and came up with "jelly ear mushrooms" or "wood ear fungus".

For some reason I can't post a google image, but google it and see!

[Zoisite]

Jelly fungus. Here's some information about why it's on your tree, and what to do (or not do) about it. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/orn...i-on-trees.htm


Picture: https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2768/4...92f18091_b.jpg

[AZgarden]

YUK ! I hope you can make it go away !

[southernnaturelover]

After a strong storm I can go outside and find branches all over my yard with that stuff on them. Pecan trees are the worst.

[Ynot]

Thanks everyone for your help in identifying this stuff!

Yep, it's a jelly fungus and not dangerous to the tree. Surprisingly, we haven't had that much rain this year, but the branches that fell were dead anyway; I think this fungus is up high in the tree and not on the trunk-at least as far as I can see. When the leaves have fallen, I'll be able to get a better look. Oak trees on our property, and in this area in general, often die and fall over. I keep a check on the trees close to the house and have them cut down before they can fall and cause damage, and they're often hollow in the middle. I dislike taking any trees down since so many critters call them home. At least I know this fungus isn't causing a problem, but it sure is yucky to the touch!