Strange growths... anyone recognize?

[tmpgh]

I was offered the chance to collect this tree on a friend's property today. It was on a creek bank that was washing out and was a goner by summer, most likely. I took the offer.

I believe the tree is American Hornbeam, but I could be wrong. I'll post a bud pic if anyone thinks that can help with id. However, the real question is about these strange growths I found when I dug it up. Any thoughts?

 

[Stan Kengai]

I believe what you have is an alder. They grow root nodules like you show as part of their natural adaptation to wetland environs. What the nodules are for, I can't quite remember. Perhaps they function like cypress knees.

 

[tmpgh]

Odd, Alder don't seem to be native to my area.

 

[tmpgh]

Stan, some quick searches on the web seem to confirm your identification. Thanks! It seems those growths are normal and harmless. I carved a bunch of them off as they were unsightly. I hope that wasn't a bad idea.

Has anyone tried to develop this species for bonsai? Can't seem to find much.

 

[Gaitano]

Interesting development article.

I have these growing everywhere around the creek behind my house. Check out this article on the development process from seed.

http://swindon-bonsai.co.uk/2010/12/22/grey-alder-‘almus-incana’/