Beefsteak Fungus (Fistulina hepatica)

Also Known as: Oxes Tongue

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Cap: 8-20cm Bracket. Redish brown above, cream below

Stem: Short, thick and lateral. May be abscent altogether.

Tubes: Cream coloured shallow layer (5-15mm)

Pores: Seperate from each other, not fusing as with the Boletes.

Spores: White or very pale ochre

Flesh: Deep red with paler mottling. Exudes blood-like juice. Just like raw meat.

Habitat: Grows on acient Oak and Chestnut trees.

Frequency: Frequent

Season:  Jan  Feb  Mar  Apr  May  Jun  Jul  Aug  Sep  Oct  Nov  Dec 

Edibility: Edible

Eating notes: Older specimens can taste slightly sour and tough. Young specimens are acceptable but not choice.