How to identify Black Foot Polypore

To correctly identify Black Foot Polypore (Polyporus badius), 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 kidney-shaped to semicircular, with a smooth, dark brown to black surface. It can be slightly depressed in the center.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   N/A (Pores instead of gills). The underside has small, round pores that are white to cream-colored.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   Absent. The fruiting body attaches directly to the substrate.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is thin and leathery, with a dark brown color.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   The fruiting body is a bracket-like structure that grows horizontally from the substrate.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Grows on decaying hardwood, particularly beech and birch.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Smooth

Growth Form

Bracket-like

Spore Print

White to cream

Body color

Dark brown to black

Odor

Mild, fungal

Flesh bruises

Does not typically bruise

Height

1-3 cm thick

Cap Diameter

5-20 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: N/A (Pores instead of gills)
• Stem shape: N/A (Lacks a true stem)
• Stem surface: N/A (Lacks a true stem)
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: N/A (Lacks a true stem)

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