Blackthorn Galls

Hairy Leaf Gall 

Eriophyes homophyllus

TQ4792 08/05/2017 ©Raymond Small

Caused by the mite Eriophyes homophyllus on Blackthorn leaves, usually along the central vein with a small opening on the leaf underside.

Pocket Plum 

Taphrina pruni

©Raymond Small TQ4792 19/05/2023

Pocket Plums are disfigured blackthorn fruits (sloes) caused by ascomycete fungus Taphrina pruni. They are referred to as 'Pocket Plums' because the fungus eradicates the developing stone and seed, leaving a little pocket in each fruit. Initially green, the galls turn brown or grey as the spore-bearing asci form on the outside.

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