It looks like Vermiculite which comes in the potting mix and has risen to the surface with the rain :) Stems can be a bit fuzzy, and sometimes they can even sprout adventitious roots which manifest as white knobs on the stem.......

Linda

Not vermiculite but perlite :-))

If it is vermiculite or perlite should I be concerned and find a way to rid the soil and plant of it?

No. Both are ingredients in many common potting mixes and assist with drainage. At least the perlite does........once vermiculite becomes fully saturated with water, it collapses and any drainage enhancement is lost. Better container potting mixes will generally always contain perlite or pumice but not vermiculite.