psymin.. hi there..

i never thought I'd say this.. but those pictures are to big.. LOL

question...

Is it always on the lower branches?

How many plants are infected or have this problem?

Does it look like rot to you? or something ate the branch...?

Is it moist at the break?

I would guess it is rot of some sort? possibly induced by a predator or weather...

What state are you in?

cheers