Burl wood is far from ordinary. The swirling patterns, twists, and the eyes that dance within the bark all combine to create a unique, highly figured grain that no human could ever replicate. But what is burl wood? We know you have heard of it – our black walnut burl and maple burl watches get a lot of love from you guys! Here is a hint: it is not a type of tree. So, what is burl wood exactly? We break down its details and types below.
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How Burl Wood Forms
Burl wood is an extraneous growth on a tree, often starting as a small, unsightly lump on the tree's surface. While it may look rough and unappealing on the outside, the inside reveals a pattern of swirls, eyes, and twists in the grain. These remarkable formations occur due to the tree's response to stress – whether from injury, infection, or environmental factors.
But what is burl wood beyond its beauty? It is essentially a mass of abnormal growth in the form of callous tissue. This tissue forms when a tree is under stress from factors like pruning, insect attacks, storms, or even a viral infection. The tree produces this callous tissue to heal, and over time, it grows into the burl formations we admire. They do not have the same growth hormones that regulate normal tree growth, which is why burls develop into such unique shapes.
Where Are Burls Found?
Burls are typically found around the base of tree trunks or in areas where branches have been broken. They can also appear in underground tree tissue. But what is burl wood, and where does it grow? They develop in response to environmental damage, such as storms, which is why they can be found in various locations on a tree.
It is important to note that while burls are rare and fascinating, they also play a crucial role in the health of trees. Removing them can expose the tree to further injury, as burls serve as protective growths, helping the tree heal from damage.
What Are Burls Used For?
Due to their irregular size and shape, burls are not ideal for structural purposes. Instead, burl wood is highly prized for decorative items like watches, furniture, musical instruments, and other crafted goods.
What is burl wood though, and why is it so valued? While burls can form on any type of tree, certain species are more susceptible to the fungal infections that cause them. This makes burls quite rare and valuable.
Burls do not harm trees or shorten their lifespan. In fact, they are a sustainable wood product when harvested responsibly. Since one can collect burls without chopping down the tree, they offer an eco-friendly source of unique wood. As they mature over 30 to 40 years, their colors and patterns deepen, becoming even richer. No two pieces of burl wood are alike, which is why items made from burl, like our watches, are always one-of-a-kind.
Types of Burl Wood
Burls are not unique to just one tree species. In fact, many different types of trees can develop burls, but some species are more prone to them than others. So, what is burl wood exactly, and where can it be found? Common trees that grow burls include:
- Walnut
- Elm
- Maple
- Cherry
- Oak
- Ash
These burls grow at a faster rate than regular tree cells, which contributes to their unpredictable and irregular size. Their growth is not dependent on the seasons, allowing them to form regardless of the weather.
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Discover Treehut’s Burl Wood Watches
Treehut's handcrafted wooden watches allow the beauty of burl wood to take center stage, showcasing its distinctive grains and textures. Whether you prefer rugged wooden straps or classic leather bands, there are plenty of options available for both men and women. For an extra personal touch, you can also have your watch engraved – making it a thoughtful gift for someone special.
