Burls can be identified by sight and touch.
Walk near trees to observe their roots. Normal roots grow outward from the trunk and have a long, snakelike appearance. Examine the tree trunks. Touch the bark on the suspected burl if you can reach it. Look up and observe the tree branches.

Is a burl worth money?

Most burls, especially layered burls, are not particularly valuable. On the other hand, a larger eyed burl in good condition should bring $25 to $200 depending on size, species and condition. I have had burls up to 8 feet in diameter, and many in the 4-5 foot range. Those can be worth $500 or more.

How much is a large burl worth?

An eyed burl of large size may earn you $25 to $200. The actual price would depend on the size, condition, and species of the wood. However, you can find burl wood pieces 4 to 8-feet in diameter. These burl pieces can each bring $500 or so.

Camphor Burl, Cinnamumum camphor, is a rare burl from Southeast Asia that is highly prized.