Introduction To Polypores: The Top 14 Edible and Medicinal Polypore Species In North America

Polypores most often resemble shelves or brackets growing on trees or deadwood; if you’ve been out in any woods, you’ve undoubtedly seen them. They’re also common in suburban and urban landscapes. Some polypore species are tip-top edibles, like chicken of the woods and hen of the woods. Others are prime medicinal species, like turkey tail and chaga. Foragers rejoice when they see these, but the presence of many polypore species also means the tree they’re on is dying, which isn’t great news for homeowners or landscapers.

These fungi are a fascinating group of organisms that play a crucial role in our ecosystems. This article delves into the world of polypores, their significance in the environment, how to identify them, and discusses the excellent edible species.

What Is A Polypore?

A polypore is a fungus that forms large fruiting bodies with pores or tubes on the underside. The term comes from the Greek words poly, meaning “much” or “many,” and poros, meaning “pore.” The pores are part of the reproductive structure of these fungi, housing the spore-producing cells.

These fungi commonly form shelf-like structures on woody substrates, earning them the alternative names bracket fungi or shelf fungi. Some varieties grow in circular or semicircular formations, while others may form thin patches on dead wood. They are a diverse group, varying in size, shape, color, and habitat preference.

With over a thousand known species, polypores are remarkably diverse. These species tend to thrive in old natural forests with abundant deadwood, but their presence is relatively limited in younger managed forests or plantations.

Interestingly, polypores are not always closely related to each other, and their classification can be complex. The traditional term “bracket fungi” has expanded to include various genera thanks to updated science and genetic analysis.

These fungi have been used in traditional medicine for centuries and are actively studied for their medicinal properties and potential industrial applications. For wild fungi seekers, polypores represent some of the most sought after edibles. On the downside, some species have also been identified as serious pathogens of plantation trees, leading to timber spoilage.

A lot of polypore species are also used to create natural dyes.

Polypores: Nature’s Wood Decomposers

Polypores play a vital role in the ecosystem as decomposers, particularly of wood. They are among the few organisms capable of breaking down lignin and cellulose, the primary components of wood. This decomposition process is crucial for nutrient cycling in the forest ecosystem and assists in the absorption of carbon dioxide. Sometimes decomposers release nutrients and minerals into the forest ecosystem for over a hundred years from a single fallen tree.

Some polypores are saprotrophic, feeding on dead or decaying wood, while others are parasitic, attacking living trees and contributing to their decline. Regardless of their feeding habits, these fungi are essential players in the recycling of nutrients within their ecosystems.

Potential Polypores Uses

Biopulping

During paper-making, lignin is usually removed using chemical bleaches, which can be contaminated with dioxins and cause damage to the environment. This process is also super energy-intensive, and the disposal of the chemicals is complicated and problematic. Instead of using chemicals, enzymes from white rot polypore fungi can be used to eliminate the lignin and save both energy and time. The perfect fungi for this would be Phanerochaete chrysosporium or Ceriporiopsis subvermispora because they can withstand high temperatures and not touch the cellulose. However, the challenge of scaling up the process to an industrial level has proven difficult.

Bioremediation

The lignin-degrading enzymes of white rot polypore fungi can break down toxic compounds such as PCBs, PCPs, and TNT. This could be used to clean up Superfund sites. Even though this has been successful on a small scale, transitioning to a larger level is another obstacle.

Identifying Polypores

Although it may seem daunting initially, careful observation and attention to detail can help distinguish different species.

Habitat and Host Tree

Polypores can be found in diverse environments, from forests to urban parks. Paying attention to the habitat and host tree is crucial for accurate identification. Some species are specific to certain tree species, while others can be found on various hosts. Take note of whether the bracket fungi is growing on living or deadwood, as this can provide valuable clues. Even if it is just to determine whether it is a hardwood or conifer, that is helpful.

Body Shape and Texture

Polypores come in a range of shapes and textures. While some have distinct bracket-like structures, others may appear as spread-out patches or crusts on wood surfaces. Pay attention to the fruiting body’s color, size, and texture. Some polypores have a soft, fleshy texture, while others are tougher and more woody. Younger specimens might be soft and brightly colored, while older ones can be hard and dull.

Pore Surface

Some polypores have maze-like or angular pores, while others have tiny, round pores. There are even some with small teeth or spines. Most polypores, though, have small pores that create a smooth surface. In this way, they are like boletes. However, boletes don’t grow as shelves on a tree. Carefully observe the color and arrangement of the pores, as they vary significantly between species.

Polypores: Medicinal Uses

Polypores have been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Modern research has studied their potential applications in treating immune system-related illnesses and cancer recovery. For instance, the Lingzhi Mushroom, aka Reishi, (Ganoderma lucidum) and Turkey Tail (Trametes versicolor) are two shelf fungi species that are widely studied for their medicinal properties.

Top 14 Edible and Medicinal Polypore Species

Among the vast quantity of polypore species, some are prime edibles, while others are valued for their medicinal properties. There’s even one that is a neat artist’s canvas!

1. Albatrellus ovinus (Sheep Polypore) [Edible]: The sheep polypore is found on the ground near conifers and is an excellent edible mushroom. It has a dense, meaty texture and mild mushroom flavor. It is widespread across North America but more common in the Pacific Northwest.
2. Bondarzewia berkeleyi (Berkeley’s Polypore)[Edible]: This huge, impressive polypore grows at the base of hardwoods and has a pleasant taste. However, it is only edible when very, very young. As it matures and spreads out, the flesh gets tough, woody, and impossible to eat. Berkeley’s polypore is also a parasitic and saprophytic mushroom. When it shows up, the tree is slowly dying. This is a hard polypore to miss; it can reach up to 12 inches wide at full maturity.
3. Cerioporus squamosus (Dryad’s Saddle)[Edible]: The Dryad’s Saddle polypore grows on hardwood logs and stumps and is recognizable by its large, saddle-like caps with beautiful dark brown markings. Like Berkeley’s polypore, this species is only edible when very young. With age, the flesh toughens to impossible eating.
4. Fistulina hepatica (Beefsteak Fungus)[Edible]: The Beefsteak polypore is a bizarre fungus with a fleshy, red growth that resembles a slab of meat. It has a meat-like texture, “bleeds” red juices when cut, and has a tangy, lemony flavor. It is found on oaks and is widespread but uncommon in most places.
5. Grifola frondosa (Hen of the Woods aka Maitake)[Edible][Medicinal]: Hen of the woods grows at the base of oaks and other hardwoods in the Northeastern States and Canada. This is a widely sought-after edible species renowned for its rich, earthy flavor and dense texture. It can be tricky to find, as it blends in well with its environment, but it is well worth the search.
6. Laetiporus cincinnatus and Laetiporus sulphureus (Chicken of the Woods)[Edible]: These brightly colored, beloved polypores are found on hardwoods and have a chicken-like texture, making them a top culinary mushroom species. Chicken of the woods is often found in massive quantities, another draw to this prime polypore species. This is one of the easiest wild mushrooms to forage due to its brilliant coloring and growth habit.
7. Meripilus sumsteinei (Black-staining Polypore)[Edible]: The large, rosette-forming black-staining polypore is almost identical in appearance to that of the woods, except the pores stain black. It is only edible when very young, as the flesh gets quite leathery with age. It has a very intense, deep mushroom, almost steak-like flavor.
8. Polyporus umbellatus (Umbrella Polypore)[Edible]: The umbrella polypore forms large, many-capped clusters at the base of hardwoods. It is somewhat rare and should be foraged with discretion. It is a prime edible, with a musky umami flavor and meaty texture.
9. Sparassis spp. (Cauliflower Mushroom)[Edible]: This unique, noodle-like polypore grows at the base of conifer stumps and has a mild, nutty flavor. Cauliflower mushrooms resemble wide egg noodles gathered in a clump on the forest floor – there’s nothing else that looks like them, making them an excellent species for beginner foragers. Sadly, they aren’t common, and finding one is not easy.
10. Trametes versicolor (Turkey Tail)[Medicinal]: The very widespread turkey tail mushroom is prized for its medicinal properties. Properties of turkey tail have shown an ability to boost the immune system, inhibit the growth of tumor cells, and reduce inflammation. It is specifically being studied for its ability to boost the immune system of prostate cancer patients during chemotherapy treatments.
11. Ganoderma Reishi complex (Reishi)[Medicinal]: Traditional Chinese medicine has used Reishi for centuries to treat high blood pressure, allergies, asthma, insomnia, and as a general immunity booster. This mushroom is well-studied and still used widely in holistic health practices. In North America, 16 species fall into the Reishi complex; many of them are region-specific.
12. Inonotus obliquus (Chaga)[Medicinal]: Chaga is a bizarre black, burnt-looking growth that shows up on dying birch trees. Its benefits include immune boosting, gastrointestinal support (specifically with IBD and Crohn’s), and easing chemotherapy and radiation’s side effects. This polypore is a powerhouse of a medicinal mushroom!
13. Fomitopsis betulina (Birch Polypore)[Medicinal]: The birch polypore has a medicinal history that literally dates back thousands of years. Otzi, the Iceman found frozen and preserved in the Alps, carried dried birch polypore with him. It was one of his very few possessions, which means it must have been very valued. Birch polypore is traditionally used to kill parasites, boost immunity, and fight bacterial and viral infections. It is also an antiseptic, meaning it stops bleeding.
14. Ganoderma applanatum (Artist’s Conk)[Artistic][Medicinal]: The artist’s conk is an unexpected and remarkable artist’s canvas. The pore underside of this species is pure white but stains brown when handled. This allows the artist to draw on the underside, often to some very neat and striking results. In addition to being a fine artistic medium, the artist’s conk is also used medicinally to treat respiratory and digestive issues.

Polypores And Tree Health

Polypore bracket fungi primarily attack the heartwood of trees, causing decay. They do not usually infect or kill the living parts of the tree (although, that depends on whether the species is parasitic or just saprophytic). When you notice the visible fruiting body of the fungus, it means that the fungus has already been at work inside the tree for a long time. Often a very very long time. The mycelium, the “roots” of the polypore species, digest the heartwood; this leads to widespread rot and eventual hollowing of the tree. There is no way to stop this process once it has started.

In most cases, the polypore does not immediately threaten the tree’s structural integrity. While the heartwood may decay, the living parts of the tree, such as the bark and sapwood, remain functional. Many trees infested with polypore fungi can live for decades, even with hollowed trunks. However, it’s essential to assess the tree’s condition and consult an experienced arborist if you’re concerned about its stability.

Prevention of Tree Polypores

Preventing tree bracket fungus starts with promoting overall tree health and creating an environment less favorable for fungal growth. Here are some preventive measures you can take:

• Proper Tree Care: Maintain good tree care practices, such as regular watering, appropriate pruning, and fertilization. Healthy trees are more resistant to fungal infections.
• Avoid Wounding: Minimize tree wounds by using proper pruning techniques; wounds provide entry points for fungi to invade the tree.
• Monitor Moisture: Ensure proper drainage around the base of trees, as excessive moisture can create a favorable environment for fungal growth. Avoid overwatering or allowing water to pool around the tree’s roots.
• Promote Air Circulation: Trim surrounding vegetation and remove debris near the tree’s base to promote air circulation. Good airflow helps keep the tree dry, reducing the risk of fungal infections.
• Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the tree’s base, being sure to keep it a few inches away from the trunk. Mulch helps retain moisture and regulates soil temperature, promoting overall tree health.

Removal of Polypore Brackets

If you discover bracket fungus on your tree, it’s important to remember that the visible fruiting body is just a tiny part of the overall fungal infection. Removing the visible fruiting body will not eliminate the underlying problem. There is no “cure” for a polypore fungus infection and you can never remove it entirely from the tree. If you’re concerned about the immediate health of the tree, our recommendation is:

1. Consult an Arborist: If you’re unsure about the tree’s stability or the extent of the fungal infection, it’s best to seek professional advice. An experienced arborist can assess the tree’s condition and recommend appropriate action.
2. Selective Pruning: If the mushroom growth is limited to a specific branch, the arborist may recommend pruning the infected branch to prevent further spread of the fungus. Proper pruning techniques should be followed to minimize the risk of additional tree damage.
3. Avoid DIY Removal: It’s generally not recommended for homeowners to attempt removing tree bracket fungus themselves. Improper removal techniques can cause further harm to the tree and increase the risk of tree injury.
4. Monitor Tree Health: Regularly inspect the tree for any signs of deterioration or changes in its structure. If you notice further decay, extensive bracket mushroom growth, or increased instability, consult an arborist for further evaluation.

Common Questions About Polypore Mushrooms