[norson]

I've some sticks temporarily (key word) saved as Alder but now am now certain. Of this I am very certain - at some points/places on the dried-out-for-months stick the bark is very loose - I can pull it away with my thumb nail - but in other places it's tight to the inner core...which is very light in color and doesn't appear to have much grain.

Therefore, as you can see in pic #2 I've left some of that firmly attached bark in place . . . just for effect. I've had these sticks for more than a year and believe they are native to IL...but not certain. No leaves avail to help in the identification process, either..sorry.

Any clues, suggestions, ideas?

thanx

-neb

 

[norson]

The more I'm working with this shank, and searching for answers, I'm beginning to believe it's ELM.

That would explain why I/we see so many piled along the curb waiting for the chopper - because of Elm Disease.

Any thoughts?

Thanx

-neb

 

[Sean]

I know I've had some red alder that looks very similar to what you have there.

 

[norson]

that certainly works for me.

thanx, Sean

-neb