Bear's head is the most common variety of Hericium. It often grows on conifer logs in North America. The bear's head grows alone and is rather large, ranging from the size of a softball to a soccer ball.
Cap Diameter:
10 - 30 cm
Odor:
Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.
In This Article
Attributes
Toxicity and Edibility
Similar Species
Tips for Finding
Clean and Preserve
Common Questions
General Info About Bear's head
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Attributes of Bear's head
Cap Diameter
10 - 30 cm
Height
10 - 75 cm
Cap
10 - 30 cm across; compact, branched mass; white to creamy, light yellowish
Flesh
White; not changing when sliced
Spore Print Color
White
Odor
Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.
Body Color
Brown
Yellow
White
Growth Form
Solitary, Gregarious
Nutrient Gathering
Saprophytic, Parasitic
Substrate
Wood of Living Trees, Dead Woods
You can find Bear's head by these plants:
Common douglas-fir
Occurence Habitats
Coniferous Woodland
Species Status
Throughout North America
Endangered Species
No
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Habitat of Bear's head
Bear's head typically thrives on conifer wood, favoring habitats with fallen trees, stumps, or heavily wooded forest areas with ample dead wood.
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Edibility of Bear's head
A choice edible that's quite sought-after, the bear's head is said to boast a seafood-y flavor as well as an excellent texture. Specimens are more palatable when they are harvested young, before they begin to turn yellow or brown. Though usually harvested from old growth forests, bear's heads can also be cultivated on sawdust.
Similar Species to Bear's head
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Tips for Finding Bear's head
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What are Some Tips for Finding Bear's head
Search around the base of conifer stumps or logs, where bear's head is more likely to be found.
Look for dead or decaying wood in conifer forests, as bear's head often grows on such substrates.
Investigate the undersides of fallen trees or logs, which can be potential growth spots for bear's head.
Check trees or wood with signs of damage or decay, which may create a suitable habitat for bear's head.
Be patient and thorough, as bear's head can blend in with its wooden substrate, making it less immediately noticeable.
How to Clean and Preserve Bear's head
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Common Questions People Also Ask
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