✅ Edibility Note
While generally considered edible, always ensure proper identification before consumption, as some lookalikes can be confusing.
Description
Polyporus squamosus features a distinctive fan-shaped cap with a scaly surface that can range in color from yellow to brown. The underside has small pores instead of gills, and it typically grows on decaying wood, particularly hardwoods.
Key Identification Features
Field marks recorded for this species. Work through all of them, not just one:
- Fan-shaped cap with a scaly surface
- Yellow to brown coloration
- Pore surface instead of gills
- Grows in clusters on wood
- Cap can reach up to 30 cm in width
Habitat & Distribution
Habitat: On decaying wood, especially on hardwoods like oak and maple.
Region: Found in temperate regions worldwide, particularly in North America and Europe.
Seasonality
Typically fruits from late spring to early fall.
Typical months: May-Oct
Common Lookalikes
Always verify identification to avoid these similar species:
- Polyporus bruneus (edible) - Similar appearance but typically darker and grows on different substrates.
- Grifola frondosa (edible) - Has a more clustered, rosette-like appearance and is usually larger.
- Lentinula edodes (edible) - Known as shiitake, has a more pronounced stem and different habitat preferences.
Related Species
Browse all species in the Mushroom Database →
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