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The Wrinkled Crust fungus, scientifically known as Phlebia radiata, is a common sight on decaying wood. It is characterized by its wrinkled, crust-like appearance and vibrant colors, ranging from pinkish-orange to reddish-brown. This fungus plays a crucial role in forest ecosystems by breaking down dead wood and recycling nutrients.
How to Identify
- Cap
- Absent (crust fungus)
- Gills
- Absent (crust fungus)
- Stem
- Absent (crust fungus)
- Flesh
- Thin and flexible when fresh, becoming brittle when dry.
- Fruiting body
- Resupinate (crust-like), closely attached to the substrate, often covering large areas.
- Habitat
- Decaying hardwood, particularly beech, birch, and alder.
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: N/A (crust fungus)
- Growth Form: Resupinate (crust-like)
- Spore Print: White to pale pink
- Body color: Pinkish-orange to reddish-brown
- Odor: Not distinctive
- Flesh bruises: No bruising reaction
- Height: Less than 1 mm thick
- Cap Diameter: N/A (crust fungus)
- Nutrient gathering: Saprophytic
Safe
SafePhlebia radiata is not considered toxic, but it is not typically consumed due to its small size and tough texture.
Quick Check
- Odor: Not distinctive
- Fruiting: Year-round, but most common in fall and winter.
- Substrate: Decaying hardwood
Where to Find
Decaying Hardwood
Wrinkled Crust is commonly found on decaying hardwood logs and branches.
Moist Forests
It thrives in moist environments, particularly in forests with abundant deadwood.
Finding Tips
Check Fallen Wood
Look for the fungus on fallen branches and logs, especially those that are partially buried in leaf litter.
Search Shaded Areas
Search in shaded areas with high humidity, as Wrinkled Crust prefers moist conditions.
Similar Species
Stereum rugosum
crust fungi
Also known as: Bleeding Broadleaf Crust
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Basidiomycota
- Class
- Agaricomycetes
- Order
- Polyporales
- Family
- Meruliaceae
- Genus
- Phlebia
Storage Information
- Max Temperature: N/A
- Freezing duration: N/A
- Min Temperature: N/A
- Refrigeration: N/A
How to Clean
Wrinkled Crust is not typically consumed, so cleaning is not applicable.
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