Symptoms:

King Alfred’s cakes, also known as ‘cramp balls’ are a black(ish) hard, inedible ball-shaped fungus. The visible part of the fungus, the fruit-body is initially reddish-brown in colour, but becomes black and shiny as it ages. The flesh is purple-brownish in colour, and dark concentric rings are visible when the fungus is cut open

King Alfred’s cakes are found growing on the dead or dying branches of deciduous trees, particularly ash, but can also occur on beech and alder. When your tree is infected, it may lead to branch breakage and can compromise the structural integrity of upper parts of the tree.

Non-chemical Fungi control:

This fungus should be removed from your tree, although as it usually grows on dead or dying branches, it is advised if you think your tree has King Alfred’s Cakes on it then you should call professionals to help removal of the fungi.

Interesting Fungi Facts:

King Alfreds cakes are poisonous but are also good for lighting fires and moving fires as they act like a lump of charcoal.

According to legend, King Alfred once hid out in a countryside homestead during war, and was put in charge of removing baking from the oven when it was done. He fell asleep and the cakes burned. Daldinia concentrica is said to resemble a cake left to this fate.

Susceptible trees:

Ash Trees
Beech Trees
Alder Trees