How to identify Artist's Conk

To correctly identify Artist's Conk (Ganoderma applanatum), check each of these features in order. Misidentification is the most common cause of mushroom poisoning, so cross-reference multiple sources.

Step-by-step identification

1. 1

   Cap

   Shape, color, surface texture, and diameter.

   The cap is typically a dull brown or grayish-brown color, often with concentric ridges or furrows. The surface is smooth but can become cracked or rough with age. A fresh specimen will have a white pore surface that darkens when bruised, making it suitable for drawing.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   This fungus does not have gills. Instead, it has a porous surface on the underside.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   It is typically stemless, attaching directly to the wood.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is tough and corky, with a dark brown color.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   The fruiting body is a hard, woody bracket or shelf-like structure that attaches broadly to the tree. It can grow quite large, sometimes exceeding 50 cm in width.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   It grows on dead or dying hardwood trees, particularly beech, maple, and oak. It can be found in forests and wooded areas worldwide.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Dull brown or grayish-brown, smooth but can become cracked

Growth Form

Bracket or shelf-like

Spore Print

Brown

Body color

Brown

Odor

Mild, woody or fungal

Flesh bruises

Pore surface darkens when bruised

Height

Up to 50 cm or more in width

Cap Diameter

Variable, up to 50 cm or more

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: No gills (pores instead)
• Stem shape: Stemless
• Stem surface: N/A
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: N/A

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