How to identify White Brain Fungus

To correctly identify White Brain Fungus (Tremella fuciformis), 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.

   N/A (gelatinous mass)

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   Absent

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   Absent

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   Translucent, gelatinous

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   White to pale yellow, gelatinous, frond-like or brain-like in appearance.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Decaying wood of broadleaf trees, especially after rain.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Gelatinous, smooth

Growth Form

Gelatinous mass

Spore Print

White

Body color

White to pale yellow

Odor

Mild, not distinctive

Flesh bruises

No bruising

Height

Variable, up to 10 cm

Cap Diameter

Up to 7.5 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: N/A (gelatinous mass)
• Stem shape: N/A (stemless)
• Stem surface: N/A (stemless)
• Ring: absent
• Stem cross-section: N/A (stemless)

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