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The Bleeding Broadleaf Crust, scientifically known as *Stereum gausapatum*, is a wood-decaying fungus commonly found on dead hardwood, particularly oak. It is characterized by its flat, crust-like appearance and the reddish staining that occurs when the surface is bruised or cut. This fungus plays a significant role in forest ecosystems by decomposing dead wood, contributing to nutrient cycling.
How to Identify
- Cap
- Absent. Forms a flat, crust-like structure directly on the wood.
- Gills
- Absent. Lacks gills or pores.
- Stem
- Absent. Lacks a stem.
- Flesh
- Thin and tough, with a reddish tint.
- Fruiting body
- Resupinate (crust-like), closely adhering to the substrate. Often has a smooth to slightly wrinkled surface.
- Habitat
- Exclusively on dead hardwood, especially oak. Can be found year-round.
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: Smooth to slightly wrinkled.
- Growth Form: Resupinate (crust-like).
- Spore Print: White to pale yellow.
- Body color: Brown to reddish-brown, often with a paler margin.
- Odor: Indistinct.
- Flesh bruises: Reddish when bruised or cut.
- Height: Less than 1 mm thick.
- Cap Diameter: Variable, can cover several inches of the substrate.
- Nutrient gathering: Saprophytic.
Safe
SafeThis fungus is not considered toxic, but it is also not typically consumed due to its tough texture and lack of flavor.
Quick Check
- Odor: Indistinct.
- Fruiting: Year-round.
- Substrate: Dead hardwood, especially oak.
Where to Find
Hardwood Forests
Prefers dead hardwood, especially oak branches and logs.
Wooded Areas
Found on fallen branches and decaying wood in wooded areas.
Finding Tips
Check Undersides
Look for flat, crust-like fungi on the underside of fallen branches or logs.
Bruise Test
Bruise the surface to check for reddish staining, a key identifier.
Similar Species
Stereum ostrea
Crust fungi
Also known as: False Turkey Tail
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Basidiomycota
- Class
- Agaricomycetes
- Order
- Russulales
- Family
- Stereaceae
- Genus
- Stereum
Storage Information
- Max Temperature: N/A
- Freezing duration: N/A
- Min Temperature: N/A
- Refrigeration: N/A
How to Clean
This fungus is not typically consumed, so cleaning is not applicable.
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