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Fomitopsis betulina, commonly known as the Birch Polypore, is a common bracket fungus found almost exclusively on birch trees. It is inedible and has medicinal properties. The fruit body is typically hoof-shaped, with a smooth, brown upper surface and a porous white underside. As it matures, the cap can become more irregular and develop cracks.
How to Identify
- Cap
- Smooth, brown to grayish-brown upper surface, often with a varnished appearance. The surface can become cracked and irregular with age.
- Gills
- No gills. The underside is covered with small, white pores.
- Stem
- Absent. The fruit body attaches directly to the tree.
- Flesh
- Tough and corky, white to pale brown.
- Fruiting body
- Hoof-shaped bracket fungus, typically 5-20 cm wide.
- Habitat
- Exclusively on birch trees, often on dead or dying branches.
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: Smooth, becoming cracked
- Growth Form: Bracket
- Spore Print: White
- Body color: Brown and white
- Odor: Mild
- Flesh bruises: No bruising
- Height: 5-20 cm
- Cap Diameter: 5-20 cm
- Nutrient gathering: Parasitic/Saprophytic
Safe
SafeThe Birch Polypore is not considered toxic.
Quick Check
- Odor: Mild, fungal odor
- Fruiting: Year-round
- Substrate: Birch trees
Where to Find
Europe
Common throughout Europe, wherever birch trees are found.
North America
Found in North America, particularly in regions with birch forests.
Finding Tips
Look for Birch Trees
Birch Polypores are almost exclusively found on birch trees, so focus your search in birch forests or areas with birch trees.
Check Dead or Dying Branches
The fungus often grows on dead or dying branches, so inspect these areas closely.
Similar Species
Other Polypores
Fungus
Also known as: Various Bracket Fungi
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Basidiomycota
- Class
- Agaricomycetes
- Order
- Polyporales
- Family
- Fomitopsidaceae
- Genus
- Fomitopsis
Storage Information
- Max Temperature: Room temperature
- Freezing duration: Not recommended
- Min Temperature: Refrigeration
- Refrigeration: A few days (if necessary)
How to Clean
The Birch Polypore is not typically consumed, so cleaning is not a primary concern. If using for medicinal purposes, wipe off any debris with a clean, damp cloth.
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