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Jelly ear

Auricularia auricula-judae

A species of Auricularia, Also known as Tree ear, Black wood ear, Jew's ear, Yu ear, Mo-er

The distinctive jelly ear grows mainly through winter and spring, mostly on the dead trunks and branches of elder trees. It occurs around the world and is often cooked into dishes in Asian countries. This ear-shaped jelly mushroom is often available in stores both fresh and dried.

Odor:

Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.

General Info About Jelly ear

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Attributes of Jelly ear

Height

3 - 8 cm

Cap

Pinkish brown, purple-brown; surface smooth, finely hairy, with a slightly downy

Spore Print Color

White

Odor

Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.

Body Color

Brown

Gray

Flesh Bruises

The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.

Growth Form

Gregarious, Clustered

Nutrient Gathering

Saprophytic, Parasitic

Substrate

Dead Woods, Wood of Living Trees

You can find Jelly ear by these plants:

Mockernut hickory, Pignut hickory, Red hickory, Shagbark hickory, Sambucus , Elder

Occurence Habitats

Deciduous Woodland

Species Status

Auricularia auricula-judae is a species of edible Auriculariales fungus found worldwide.

Endangered Species

How to Identify Jelly ear

Fruiting Body Inner Surface Outer Surface

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Habitat of Jelly ear

The jelly ear grows in woods and is closely associated with broadleaf deciduous trees. It thrives on deadwood or decaying wood, on stumps, fallen logs, branches, and twigs.

Distribution Area of Jelly ear

North America, Europe, northern Asia

Uses of Jelly ear

Jelly ear is a popular edible mushroom, sought after for its unique texture and flavor, often found in Asian cuisine. Its availability peaks in the cooler months, enhancing its seasonal culinary value. Jelly ear is also recognized for potential medicinal properties, particularly in traditional practices. As an edible species, it's commonly harvested and holds significant collection worth. Consumers should ensure proper identification and preparation to enjoy jelly ear safely.

Scientific Classification of Jelly ear

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Auriculariales

Family

Auriculariaceae

Genus

Auricularia

Toxicity and Edibility of Jelly ear

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Edibility of Jelly ear

Though eaten by cultures around the world, the jelly ear is considered a 'choice' edible by almost no one. This mushroom lacks flavor and can (especially in matures specimens) have a rubbery texture. Young jelly ears are sometimes incorporated into mushroom flavors to add volume and texture.

Similar Species to Jelly ear

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Amber jelly roll

Similar Species

Jelly ear

Confusing Aspects of Amber jelly roll and Jelly ear?

Jelly ear and Amber jelly roll are often confused due to their similar gelatinous texture, dark color, and the habit of growing on dead or decaying wood.

How to Differentiate Between Amber jelly roll and Jelly ear?

Jelly ear: Generally forms a cup or ear-like structure.

Amber jelly roll: Typically grows as small, irregular blobs.

Jelly ear: Upper surface is often velvety or finely hairy.

Amber jelly roll: Its upper surface is generally smooth or slightly wrinkled.

Tips for Finding Jelly ear

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When is the Best Time to Find Jelly ear

Search for jelly ear during the cooler months of late fall to early spring, after rainfall. These mushrooms thrive in damp conditions when there is increased moisture in the air.

What are Some Tips for Finding Jelly ear

Look for elder trees, living or dead, as jelly ear frequently inhabits elder wood.
Inspect decaying wood, particularly where the bark has fallen away, as jelly ear often appears on exposed wood.
Explore shaded, moist areas where trees like elders grow, as these conditions are favorable for jelly ear.
Check for large, ear-shaped, brown or purple fruiting bodies that are commonly indicative of jelly ear.
Look in areas with fallen branches or stumps, as jelly ear can often be found on such wood debris.

How to Clean and Preserve Jelly ear

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How to Clean Jelly ear

To clean jelly ear, gently brush off any debris using a soft brush, avoid soaking as they absorb moisture easily. Ensure to handle jelly ear delicately to maintain their physical integrity.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Jelly ear

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying

Drying Duration

6 - 12 months

Store in a cool, dark, and dry place with low humidity and good ventilation.

Dehydrator drying: Ensures controlled temperature and air flow, suitable for high water content.

Oven drying: Moderate heat with door ajar offers consistent drying for delicate structures.

Air drying: Natural, slow process leveraging ambient conditions; best in dry, warm climates.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of Jelly ear

Freezing Methods

Blanching Before Freezing

Freezing Duration

10 - 12 months

Blanching before freezing: Blanch for 1-2 minutes, cool immediately, pat dry, freeze on tray, then transfer to airtight containers.

Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Jelly ear

Refrigerating Methods

Paper Bag Storage, Plastic Wrap Storage, Container with Absorbent Lining

Temperature

0 - 4 ℃

Refrigerating Humidity

90 - 95 %

Refrigerating Duration

7 - 10 days

Paper Bag Storage: Store in paper bags to provide breathability, reducing moisture accumulation.

Plastic Wrap Storage: Cover with perforated plastic wrap to maintain moisture while allowing air circulation.

Container with Absorbent Lining: Use an airtight container lined with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture.

Common Questions People Also Ask

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Is jelly ear a mushroom?

Is a jelly ear edible?

Why is it called jelly ear?

Is jelly ear same as black fungus?

How do you prepare jelly ear?

Are jelly ear healthy?

Are jelly ear poisonous?

Can you eat jelly ear raw?

More Mushrooms That Are Similar to Jelly ear

Amber jelly roll

Exidia recisa

Wood ear

Auricularia cornea