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Tinder fungus

Fomes fomentarius

A species of Fomes, Also known as Hoof fungus, Ice man fungus, False tinder fungus, Horse's hoof fungus

This large, tough shelf fungus can be found attached to birch, beech, and sycamore trees. It gets its common name, tinder fungus, from the fact that it burns quite slowly and can thus be used effectively for lighting fires. Dried pieces can also be a useful desiccant. A piece of this fungus was found in the possession of Otzi the Iceman, indicating that its usefulness has been known for millenia.

Cap Diameter:

15 - 25 cm

Odor:

Faintly fruity, not distinctive.

General Info About Tinder fungus

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Attributes of Tinder fungus

Cap Diameter

15 - 25 cm

Height

5 - 15 cm

Cap

Cap 20 cm across; shell-shaped to hoof-shaped; gray and brownish

Cap Surfaces

Fibrillose-scaly

Gills

Not applicable

Stem

Absent

Flesh

Thin; hard, fibrous; yellowish brown

Ring

On the edge; circular; white

Spore Print Color

White

Odor

Faintly fruity, not distinctive.

Body Color

Brown

Gray

Flesh Bruises

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

Growth Form

Solitary, Scattered, Gregarious

Nutrient Gathering

Saprophytic, Parasitic

Substrate

Wood of Living Trees, Dead Woods

You can find Tinder fungus by these plants:

American beech, Paper birch, European beech

Occurence Habitats

Deciduous Woodland

Species Status

Fairly widely distributed

Endangered Species

How to Identify Tinder fungus

Fruiting Body Cap Pores

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Habitat of Tinder fungus

The tinder fungus is a pathogen fungus that attacks birch trees, and sometimes beech. It grows both on living trees and stumps and fallen logs.

Distribution Area of Tinder fungus

North America,Europe,North Africa,Asia

Uses of Tinder fungus

Tinder fungus is renowned for its medicinal properties rather than culinary applications. Traditionally, it has been used in various cultures as a remedy for ailments and is not commonly consumed as food. Tinder fungus's value lies in its potential therapeutic uses, which have garnered attention for their historical significance and ongoing research interest. While not a popular edible mushroom, the focus on tinder fungus remains within the realm of natural medicine, emphasizing caution due to its specific medicinal constituents.

Scientific Classification of Tinder fungus

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Shelf fungi

Family

Polyporaceae

Genus

Fomes

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Tips for Finding Tinder fungus

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When is the Best Time to Find Tinder fungus

Search for tinder fungus from late winter through spring, when temperatures start to rise but there isn't heavy foliage yet. Early morning, after a spell of wet weather, can increase your chances of finding tinder fungus.

What are Some Tips for Finding Tinder fungus

Examine living or dead hardwood trees, particularly birch, for growths.
Search at different heights, as tinder fungus can be found above ground level on tree trunks.
Inspect trees with visible damage or signs of decay, since tinder fungus may inhabit weakened hosts.
Look for the characteristic hoof-like shape on tree trunks to identify tinder fungus.
Use binoculars to spot tinder fungus high up on trees if searching from the ground.

How to Clean and Preserve Tinder fungus

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How to Clean Tinder fungus

Gently brush off any debris from tinder fungus using a soft brush. If needed, a damp cloth may be used to wipe the surface, avoiding saturation. Allow tinder fungus to air dry before further handling.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Tinder fungus

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying

Drying Duration

12 - 24 months

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

Dehydrator drying: Efficiently reduces moisture content without compromising structural integrity.