What is eating and growing on my azaleas?

Question

I have recently discovered something very strange eating and growing on my azaleas bushes. They are hard to the touch like crystallized sugar, but once the branch is picked it will become soft and sponge like over several hours. Does anyone know what this is? And what do I treat it with?
Please see attached photos.

Thanks,
Rebecca

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Answer 1

From the photos, it appears to be Azalea Leaf Gall:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/azalea/azalea-leaf-gall.htm