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The Split Gill Fungus (Schizophyllum commune) is a very common and widely distributed mushroom, known for its distinctive split gills and fan-like appearance. It is a saprophytic fungus, meaning it obtains nutrients from decaying organic matter, and is often found on dead wood.
How to Identify
- Cap
- Small, fan-shaped, whitish to grayish, often with a hairy or fuzzy texture.
- Gills
- Distinctive split gills that split lengthwise, whitish to grayish.
- Stem
- Short or absent, lateral if present.
- Flesh
- Thin and tough.
- Fruiting body
- Small, fan-shaped, and often clustered.
- Habitat
- Grows on dead wood of various trees.
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: Hairy or fuzzy
- Growth Form: Clustered or solitary
- Spore Print: White
- Body color: Whitish to grayish
- Odor: Mild or indistinct
- Flesh bruises: No bruising reaction
- Height: Up to 2 cm
- Cap Diameter: 0.5-4 cm
- Nutrient gathering: Saprophytic
Safe
SafeGenerally considered non-toxic, but not typically consumed due to its small size and tough texture. Some reports suggest potential allergenic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Quick Check
- Odor: Mild or indistinct
- Fruiting: Year-round, depending on climate
- Substrate: Dead wood
Where to Find
Woodland areas
Found on dead wood, logs, and branches of various trees.
Urban areas
Grows on decaying wood in urban environments.
Finding Tips
Check dead wood
Look for small, fan-shaped, whitish to grayish mushrooms on dead wood.
Identify split gills
Search for mushrooms with gills that split lengthwise.
Similar Species
Crepidotus spp.
a species of mushroom
Also known as: None
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Basidiomycota
- Class
- Agaricomycetes
- Order
- Agaricales
- Family
- Schizophyllaceae
- Genus
- Schizophyllum
Storage Information
- Max Temperature: N/A
- Freezing duration: N/A
- Min Temperature: N/A
- Refrigeration: N/A
How to Clean
Not typically consumed, so cleaning is not applicable.
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