How to identify Violet Toothed Polypore

To correctly identify Violet Toothed Polypore (Trichaptum biforme), 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.

   The cap is typically semicircular or irregular in shape, with a velvety to hairy texture. Young specimens exhibit a distinct violet to purple color, which fades to brown or grayish-brown as they mature. The cap surface may also display concentric zones of different colors.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   Instead of true gills, Trichaptum biforme has a pore surface that appears tooth-like or maze-like. The pore surface is initially violet or purple, fading to brownish or grayish.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   Lacks a stem; the fruiting body attaches directly to the substrate.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is thin, leathery, and tough.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   The fruiting body is a thin, tough, and flexible bracket or shelf-like structure. It often grows in overlapping clusters.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Found on dead hardwood trees and branches, causing white rot. It can be found year-round.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Velvety to hairy.

Growth Form

Bracket or shelf-like.

Spore Print

White to pale lilac.

Body color

Violet to purple when young, fading to brown or grayish-brown.

Odor

Indistinct.

Flesh bruises

Does not typically bruise.

Height

1-4 cm

Cap Diameter

2-10 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: N/A (pores instead of gills)
• Stem shape: Absent
• Stem surface: N/A
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: N/A

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