How do you support a second tier just from the center like in this cake?

http://www.flickr.com/photos/9890104@N03/766400948/in/faves-49972096@N00/

Thank you!

Because of the thickness of the tree trunk there probably are 3 or 4 dowels wrapped together, then the plate is put on top.

it could be a cake stand similar to this one... http://www.sugarcraft.com/catalog/wedding/304-7915_mpg.jpg

ive used that one before and just used rice crispy treats covered in fondant around the center support

http://www.wilton.com/store/site/product.cfm?sku=pg_talltierstand&killnav=1

Thank you so much for your help!