A rounded, knotty outgrowth on a tree
Definition of Burl
Although burls are ugly, resembling warts, they have fascinated me for over a dozen years. I look for burls whenever I’m surrounded by trees.
I may not remember my first notice of burls, but I remember why they became intriguing. Burls are formed when a tree becomes stressed from an injury, virus or fungus. The resulting wood grain that grows in a deformed manner is so beautiful that the grain is coveted by wood carvers. Burls are poached.
Even more amazing than their unseen beauty, some burls can grow a new tree. Or multiple trees.
Affliction that seems ugly on the outside produces fruitfulness and inward beauty. That is both Biblical and amazing to see up close in God’s creation.
To grant to those who mourn in Zion—to give them a beautiful headdress instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit; that they may be called oaks of righteousness, and the planting of the Lord, that he may be glorified. Isaiah 61:3 (ESV)
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