How to identify Hen of the Woods

To correctly identify Hen of the Woods (Grifola frondosa), 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 caps are typically 2-7 cm wide, fan-shaped, and have wavy or lobed edges. The color ranges from grayish-brown to dark brown. The surface is often wrinkled or finely hairy.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   Grifola frondosa is a polypore, so it does not have gills. Instead, it has pores on the underside of the caps. The pores are small, angular, and white to cream-colored.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   The stem is branched and sturdy, supporting the cluster of caps. It is typically short and thick, and white to cream-colored.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is white and firm, with a slightly chewy texture.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   The fruiting body of Grifola frondosa is large and clustered, often weighing several pounds. It consists of multiple fan-shaped caps attached to a central stem.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Grows at the base of trees, especially oaks, in the fall. It is saprophytic, feeding on decaying wood.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Wrinkled or finely hairy

Growth Form

Clustered

Spore Print

White

Body color

Grayish-brown to dark brown

Odor

Earthy, nutty

Flesh bruises

Does not typically bruise

Height

Up to 60 cm

Cap Diameter

2-7 cm (per cap)

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: N/A (polypore)
• Stem shape: Branched, sturdy
• Stem surface: Smooth
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: Solid

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