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Exidia recisa, commonly known as the Amber Jelly Roll, is a species of jelly fungus in the family Auriculariaceae. It is characterized by its gelatinous, brain-like or convoluted fruit bodies that are amber to reddish-brown in color, often growing in clusters on dead deciduous wood, especially willow. When dry, it shrivels to a hard, dark, inconspicuous crust, but revives to its original gelatinous form upon rehydration.
How to Identify
- Cap
- Not applicable; this fungus does not produce a distinct cap. The entire fruiting body is the reproductive structure.
- Gills
- Not applicable; this is a jelly fungus and does not have gills. Spores are produced on the surface of the convoluted fruiting body.
- Stem
- Absent. The fruiting body is sessile, attached directly to the substrate at a constricted base.
- Flesh
- Gelatinous and translucent, with an elastic and rubbery consistency when fresh and moist. Odor and taste are indistinct.
- Fruiting body
- The fruiting body is typically 1-4 cm (0.4-1.6 inches) across and 0.5-2 cm (0.2-0.8 inches) high, often occurring in dense clusters. It is gelatinous, lobed, convoluted, or brain-like in appearance, sometimes more cushion-shaped or disc-like. The color ranges from yellowish-brown, amber, or reddish-brown to dark brown, often translucent. When dry, it shrinks significantly to a dark, hard, varnished-looking crust. When moist, it is rubbery and elastic.
- Habitat
- Saprobic, growing on dead deciduous wood, particularly willow (Salix species), but also found on alder (Alnus), birch (Betula), and other hardwoods. It can be found on logs, branches, and fallen trees. Often appears in clusters or rows along cracks in the bark.
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: Not applicable (no cap)
- Growth Form: Irregularly lobed, brain-like, or cushion-shaped, often confluent in clusters
- Spore Print: White
- Body color: Yellowish-brown, amber, reddish-brown, dark brown; translucent
- Odor: Indistinct
- Flesh bruises: Does not bruise
- Height: 0.5-2 cm (0.2-0.8 inches)
- Cap Diameter: 1-4 cm (0.4-1.6 inches)
- Nutrient gathering: Saprobic
Safe
SafeExidia recisa is generally considered edible, though it has little culinary value due to its bland taste and gelatinous texture. It is not toxic, but like all wild mushrooms, individual sensitivities can vary. Always cook thoroughly. There are no known toxic look-alikes that present a serious health risk, but proper identification is crucial.
Quick Check
- Odor: Indistinct
- Fruiting: Late autumn to spring, year-round during mild, wet periods
- Substrate: Dead deciduous wood, especially willow
Where to Find
North America
Widely distributed throughout temperate regions of North America, particularly common in eastern North America.
Europe
Very common across Europe, from Scandinavia to the Mediterranean.
Asia
Reported in parts of Asia, though less studied in some regions.
Finding Tips
Substrate Preference
Focus foraging efforts on dead deciduous wood, especially fallen willow branches and logs. Check the undersides of fallen wood or areas where moisture tends to accumulate.
Moisture Conditions
This fungus is most conspicuous and easily identified after rain or during periods of high humidity. During dry spells, it will shrink and darken, becoming almost invisible, only to rehydrate and swell with moisture.
Seasonal Availability
Can be found year-round in suitable climates, but most abundant from late autumn through spring, particularly during mild, wet weather.
Similar Species
Witches' Butter
jelly fungi
Also known as: Yellow Brain Fungus
Brown Jelly Fungus
jelly fungi
Also known as: Tremella foliacea
Wood Ear
jelly fungi
Also known as: Auricularia auricula-judae
Crystal Brain Fungus
jelly fungi
Also known as: Exidia nucleata
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Basidiomycota
- Class
- Agaricomycetes
- Order
- Auriculariales
- Family
- Auriculariaceae
- Genus
- Exidia
Storage Information
- Max Temperature: 4°C
- Freezing duration: 3 months
- Min Temperature: 0°C
- Refrigeration: 5-7 days
How to Clean
Due to its gelatinous nature, Exidia recisa does not require extensive cleaning. A gentle rinse under cold water to remove any debris or dirt is usually sufficient. Pat dry with a paper towel. Avoid harsh scrubbing as it can damage the delicate texture.
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