Maitake mushroom – 10/1/10

Observer: Constance Keegan

Observation Date: 10/1/10

Observation Time: Daytime

Observation Location: By a large oak tree in my yard on Moosehill Pkwy

Common Name: Maitake mushroom

Scientific Name: Grifola frondosa

Comments: Also called “hen of the woods,” G. frondosa should not be confused with Laetiporus sulphureus, another edible bracket fungus that is commonly called “chicken of the woods.” Like all polypores, the fungus becomes inedible when older, because it is then too tough to eat.

More Information: Wikipedia