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Hemlock varnish shelf

Ganoderma tsugae

A species of Artist's bracket and allies

The hemlock varnish shelf is a parasitic species that can be found (unsurprisingly) on Hemlock trees. The species' range is limited to the eastern US - they are particularly common across Appalachia. As with other members of Ganoderma, hemlock varnish shelf has a shiny, lacquered-looking surface. This tough species is considered inedible.

Cap Diameter:

4 - 16 cm

Odor:

Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.

General Info About Hemlock varnish shelf

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Attributes of Hemlock varnish shelf

Cap Diameter

4 - 16 cm

Cap

Cap 4 - 16 cm; fan-shaped, kidney-shaped; red; with a shiny, varnished surface

Cap Surfaces

Smooth

Gills

Free

Stem

Stem 3 - 14 cm long, up to 3 cm thick; equal or irregular; colored like the cap

Stem Shapes

Cylindrical

Stem Surfaces

Smooth

Flesh

Fairly soft to tough; whitish when fresh

Ring

Ringless

Spore Print Color

Brown

Odor

Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.

Body Color

Brown

Yellow

Red

White

Orange

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 Hemlock varnish shelf by these plants:

Eastern hemlock

Occurence Habitats

Coniferous Woodland

Species Status

Common

Endangered Species

How to Identify Hemlock varnish shelf

Fruiting Body Cap Undersurface

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Habitat of Hemlock varnish shelf

The hemlock varnish shelf grows in the areas where conifers are present, but its habitat is almost exclusively related to hemlock (Tsuga). It grows on deadwood, stumps, and logs, but occasionally appears on living wood, although rarely.

Uses of Hemlock varnish shelf

Hemlock varnish shelf is primarily valued for its medicinal properties. Traditionally used in Eastern medicine, it's believed to support immune function and promote health. While not a common edible, its extracts are often found in supplements and teas. Harvested seasonally, hemlock varnish shelf holds significant collection value among enthusiasts. However, users should consult healthcare providers before use due to potential interactions with medications or pre-existing conditions.

Scientific Classification of Hemlock varnish shelf

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Shelf fungi

Family

Ganodermataceae

Genus

Artist's bracket and allies

Similar Species to Hemlock varnish shelf

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Tips for Finding Hemlock varnish shelf

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When is the Best Time to Find Hemlock varnish shelf

Search for hemlock varnish shelf from late spring to early fall, after periods of rain when the weather is still warm but not excessively hot. Morning hours are often best when the ground remains moist.

What are Some Tips for Finding Hemlock varnish shelf

Search around coniferous tree stumps and fallen logs, as hemlock varnish shelf prefer such substrates.
Inspect the base of conifer trees for any sign of hemlock varnish shelf, taking care not to damage the surrounding environment.
Look for the distinctive shelf-like fruiting bodies of hemlock varnish shelf that may reveal their presence on host trees.
Be mindful of the environment and only forage hemlock varnish shelf where it's legally and sustainably permissible.
Use a gentle touch when collecting hemlock varnish shelf to avoid harming the fungus or tree, preserving the site for future growth.

How to Clean and Preserve Hemlock varnish shelf

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How to Clean Hemlock varnish shelf

To clean hemlock varnish shelf, avoid water immersion. Remove debris with a soft brush; for persistent spots, use a damp cloth gently. Handle carefully to maintain its form.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Hemlock varnish shelf

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying

Drying Duration

12 - 24 months

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

Dehydrator drying: Preserves by removing moisture quickly and uniformly.

Oven drying: Consistent low temperature removes water effectively.

Air drying: Natural, gradual dehydration using ambient airflow.

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