I'm the source of the problem, or so they call me, When really I'm just part of a plant or a tree, Where it's dark and it's cold I burrow my way, I seek out fresh water and lock my body in place

I am best when I am long, standing tall and straight, I look my best when stiff and firm, a truly proud estate, I’m known to release some sticky sap when fully grown and ripe, And if you handle me too much, you’ll need a cloth to wipe.

I know it's late summer now, but before you know it, this season will show up out of nowhere!

My daughter’s favorite riddle is this: What looks like a celestial body without being said celestial body?

I was black and dirty, now I’m white and clean Crushed for years till I could gleam Kings wear me, thieves steal me Cut into pieces, yet I’m still me What am I?