My several year old Redbud tree has developed these mushroom looking 'barnacles' on the trunk. They are tiny, about 1/2 inch across. Does anyone know what they are and how to kill them? I haven't ever used chemicals in my yard, but to save the tree I'm willing.

I apologize for the delay - I was looking up various fungi trying to locate your tree's particular type. Is this photo the same as what is on your tree?

http://commons.wikimedia.org/w...

Hi, thanks for looking. It doesn't seem to be 'fuzzy' like that. I'll get a better close up tomorrow.

Sounds great.

Fungus on trees normally only happens on trees on their way out, sick and stressed. It usually takes a tree expert to diagnose and treat to save a tree.
So first thing is to ask is it worth it ?
There is a tree fungus chemical but you really have to know a bit more to use it, a local co-op agricultural agent may be able to give you some help.

It has been sickly for years. My housemate keeps telling me it's dying, I guess it is. Well Redbuds are easy to come by here in OK, so I guess if it doesn't make it I'll get another one. Not worth a tree specialist. I have several others in the front yard that are fine.

That may be one of the shelf fungus.

I thought the same thing, Tiffany. I've seen them both on living trees and on rotting logs. Not sure if they hurt the tree or not. I guess it depends on the type. Here's a bit from wikipedia:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/B...

Hopefully these are better photos. I've knocked them all off and sprayed with a fungicide.....

Thank you all for your help and suggestions. I surely appreciate it.