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Trametes versicolor, commonly known as Turkey Tail, is a common polypore mushroom found worldwide. It is characterized by its colorful, concentric zones resembling the tail feathers of a wild turkey. This fungus is known for its medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine.
How to Identify
- Cap
- The cap is multi-colored with concentric zones of brown, tan, cream, and sometimes green or blue. The surface is finely hairy and slightly velvety.
- Gills
- No gills; has small pores on the underside.
- Stem
- Absent.
- Flesh
- Thin and tough.
- Fruiting body
- Thin, leathery, fan-shaped brackets that grow in overlapping tiers.
- Habitat
- Grows on dead logs, stumps, and branches of hardwoods.
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: Finely hairy, velvety.
- Growth Form: Bracket-like, tiered.
- Spore Print: White.
- Body color: Multi-colored (brown, tan, cream, sometimes green/blue).
- Odor: Mild, fungal.
- Flesh bruises: Does not bruise.
- Height: 1-5 cm.
- Cap Diameter: 2-8 cm.
- Nutrient gathering: Saprophytic.
Safe
SafeTurkey Tail is generally considered non-toxic and safe to consume, though some individuals may experience mild digestive upset.
Quick Check
- Odor: Mild, fungal odor.
- Fruiting: Year-round.
- Substrate: Dead hardwoods.
Where to Find
North America
Common throughout North American forests, especially on hardwood trees.
Europe
Widespread in European woodlands.
Asia
Found in various Asian countries, including China and Japan.
Finding Tips
Look on Hardwoods
Search for Turkey Tail on fallen hardwood logs and branches, particularly beech, birch, and oak.
Check Damp Areas
These fungi thrive in moist environments, so focus on damp, shaded areas in the forest.
Year-Round Availability
Turkey Tail can be found year-round, but it is most prominent in the fall and winter.
Similar Species
Stereum ostrea
crust fungus
Also known as: False Turkey Tail
Trichaptum biforme
bracket fungus
Also known as: Violet Toothed Polypore
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Basidiomycota
- Class
- Agaricomycetes
- Order
- Polyporales
- Family
- Polyporaceae
- Genus
- Trametes
Storage Information
- Max Temperature: 25°C
- Freezing duration: N/A (not recommended)
- Min Temperature: 2°C
- Refrigeration: 1-2 weeks
How to Clean
Wipe off any debris with a dry brush. Avoid washing unless necessary, and if so, dry thoroughly to prevent mold.
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