How to identify Honeycomb Polypore

To correctly identify Honeycomb Polypore (Neofavolus alveolaris), 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.

   Circular to kidney-shaped, with a honeycomb-like pore surface. Color ranges from orange to yellow-brown.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   Absent; has hexagonal pores instead.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   Short, lateral, and often curved.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   Thin and tough.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   Typically grows on decaying wood.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Decaying wood of deciduous trees.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Dry, with hexagonal pores

Growth Form

Singly or in small groups

Spore Print

White

Body color

Orange to yellow-brown

Odor

Mild, not distinctive

Flesh bruises

Does not typically bruise

Height

2-5 cm

Cap Diameter

2-10 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: N/A (pores instead of gills)
• Stem shape: Cylindrical or flattened
• Stem surface: Smooth
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: Solid

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