Gooseberry Gall

Andricus grossulariae

The initial observation of this gall in Essex took place in 2004, four years after its discovery in Berkshire. These galls, which are round with a pointed end, develop in large clusters on male catkins of Turkey Oak. They are caused by the sexual generation of a gall wasp. Immature galls have a slightly hairy, waxy appearance and are bright green. By late spring, they mature into small, shiny maroon structures before becoming hard and woody. Fallen galls have also been noticed at the base of a Lucombe Oak.