maple tree

[d.l.stowers]

I have a maple tree that appears to be healthy. However, there appears to be a visible problem that has me worried. On many of the leaves (all the way from top to bottom of the tree) are small (1/4 inch or less), rigid, pointed little spikes that are sticking upward from the leaves. This spikes follow the veins of the leaves. They ae firmly attached to the leaves. When the leaf is picked from the tree, within an hour or so the spikes appear to wilt as if separated from it source of food. Looking at the bottom of the leaf the attachment site of the spikes create little pucker sites. Could this be a parasitic pest? or is this this something normal? Two other nearby maples are not showing any signs of the predicament.

 

[Treeman14]

It sounds like some type of gall-making insect. Check out this site for a description http://www.entomology.umn.edu/cues/IPM-trees/M.htm#Maple

To answer your questions, No, it is not normal, but galls usually do not damage the tree. Control is not normally needed, since natural enemies of the gall-making insects usually keep them in check.

 

[Deere John]

Me thinks a gallmite too. I keyed out a spindlegall mite.