Robins Pincushion

This furry growth is due to the activity of a gall wasp.


The Robin's pincushion is a gall caused by the larvae of a tiny gall wasp, Dipoloepis rosae. The gall is widespread and common, and can be found developing on the stems of wild roses during late summer.
It acquires its reddish colour as it matures in autumn. Each gall holds many grubs, which feed on the gall tissues throughout the winter and emerge in spring as adults.