Gum Drop Tree - White Color on Base - Ask Extension
Hi!
On my talk Gum Drop tree in backyard, I noticed a white color near base of the tree. Was curious what it could be and if I can treat or should ...
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Gum Drop Tree - White Color on Base #943961
Asked September 01, 2026, 11:14 AM EDT
Hi!
On my talk Gum Drop tree in backyard, I noticed a white color near base of the tree. Was curious what it could be and if I can treat or should contact a professional? Thanks!
Anne Arundel County Maryland
Expert Response
We don't see any concerning symptoms in the photos, and aren't sure what white residue you're referring to. Lichen can be very common on bark, and sometimes tree bark can exfoliate (flake off) under normal conditions without a disease or pest cause. If you see shiny, sticky residue, that would probably be honeydew, a sugary secretion produced by certain sap-sucking insects like aphids and Spotted Lanternflies. It can be a nuisance, but is not harmful.
Any issues you find worrisome can certainly be evaluated by a certified arborist or licensed tree expert. They cannot treat or cure every condition (and very few mature tree issues can be treated without a professional), but they can help narrow-down a diagnosis and can look for sources of tree stress that might be able to be alleviated.
Miri
Any issues you find worrisome can certainly be evaluated by a certified arborist or licensed tree expert. They cannot treat or cure every condition (and very few mature tree issues can be treated without a professional), but they can help narrow-down a diagnosis and can look for sources of tree stress that might be able to be alleviated.
Miri
