How to identify Bleeding Broadleaf Crust

To correctly identify Bleeding Broadleaf Crust (Stereum gausapatum), 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.

   Absent. Forms a flat, crust-like structure directly on the wood.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   Absent. Lacks gills or pores.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   Absent. Lacks a stem.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   Thin and tough, with a reddish tint.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   Resupinate (crust-like), closely adhering to the substrate. Often has a smooth to slightly wrinkled surface.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   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.

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Absent (crust fungus)
• Stem shape: Absent (crust fungus)
• Stem surface: Absent (crust fungus)
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: Absent (crust fungus)

Explore Bleeding Broadleaf Crust