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Coral tooth fungus

Hericium coralloides

A species of monkey's head, Also known as Bear’s head tooth

Coral tooth fungus (Hericium coralloides) is a species of coral mushroom most frequently sighted on dead or decaying hardwoods. Generally, younger specimens are white and become increasingly yellowish as they mature. Found around the world, the Māori refer to this species as pekepekekiore.

Odor:

Faint, indistinct mushroom scent.

General Info About Coral tooth fungus

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Attributes of Coral tooth fungus

Height

20 - 40 cm

Flesh

Soft; white, pinkish beige to brown

Spore Print Color

White

Odor

Faint, indistinct mushroom scent.

Body Color

Brown

Yellow

White

Pink

Flesh Bruises

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

Growth Form

Solitary, Gregarious

Nutrient Gathering

Saprophytic, Parasitic

Substrate

Dead Woods

You can find Coral tooth fungus by these plants:

European beech, Oaks

Occurence Habitats

Deciduous Woodland

Species Status

Widely distributed

Endangered Species

How to Identify Coral tooth fungus

Fruiting Body Habit & Habitat

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Habitat of Coral tooth fungus

The coral tooth fungus can be found in deciduous forests. It grows on deadwood and it's usually found on decaying stumps and fallen logs and branches.

Distribution Area of Coral tooth fungus

North America,Europe,northern Asia

Uses of Coral tooth fungus

Coral tooth fungus is prized for its culinary uses, often featured in gourmet dishes due to its unique texture and flavor. It's a seasonal delicacy that attracts mushroom foragers during its growth period. While not the most popular, it holds value among mycophiles for both taste and potential health benefits. However, consumers should be aware of look-alikes and ensure proper identification before consumption to avoid any risks.

Scientific Classification of Coral tooth fungus

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Russulales

Family

Tooth fungi

Genus

monkey's head

Toxicity and Edibility of Coral tooth fungus

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Edibility of Coral tooth fungus

The coral tooth fungus is reportedly edible, though it is not used very often due to its delicateness and often diminutive size. It is best eaten when young and white—older specimens, which tend to be yellower, have a more bitter and unpalatable flavor.

Similar Species to Coral tooth fungus

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Tips for Finding Coral tooth fungus

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When is the Best Time to Find Coral tooth fungus

Search for coral tooth fungus in late summer to fall, when temperatures begin to cool. Ideal conditions occur after periods of rain, followed by cool nights and warm days.

What are Some Tips for Finding Coral tooth fungus

Inspect fallen hardwood logs and branches in forested areas for coral tooth fungus.
Look for coral tooth fungus in areas with abundant dead or decaying hardwood.
Carefully inspect the undersides and cracks of logs, as coral tooth fungus may grow there.
Pay attention to well-shaded spots which are likely habitats for coral tooth fungus.
Use a gentle touch to move aside foliage or debris that might be hiding coral tooth fungus.

How to Clean and Preserve Coral tooth fungus

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How to Clean Coral tooth fungus

To clean coral tooth fungus, gently shake to remove debris and inspect for tiny beetles or sawdust, manually extracting these nuisances. Avoid yellowish coral tooth fungus as they may be too old.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Coral tooth fungus

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying

Drying Duration

6 - 12 months

Store in airtight containers, in dark, cool places, away from direct sunlight and moisture.

Dehydrator drying: Ensures consistent airflow and temperature, suitable for dense, moist varieties.

Oven drying: Controlled low heat accelerates drying process, useful for thicker-fleshed species.

Air drying: Utilizes natural airflow, cost-effective for less dense, fragile types.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of Coral tooth fungus

Freezing Methods

Blanching Before Freezing

Freezing Duration

10 - 12 months

Blanching before freezing: Brief heating in boiling water, then plunging into ice water before freezing.

Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Coral tooth fungus

Refrigerating Methods

Paper Bag Storage, Cloth Wrapping, Ventilated Container Storage, Original Habitat Simulation

Temperature

1 - 3 ℃

Refrigerating Humidity

90 - 95 %

Refrigerating Duration

3 - 7 days

Paper Bag Storage: Store in paper bags to allow moisture absorption and air circulation.

Cloth Wrapping: Enclose in a damp cloth to retain some humidity while allowing excess moisture to escape.

Ventilated Container Storage: Place in a container that’s covered loosely with a lid or plastic wrap to balance moisture and airflow.

Original Habitat Simulation: Keep in the original moss or leaf litter to simulate natural conditions and maintain humidity.

Common Questions People Also Ask

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Are all hericium edible?

Where does coral tooth fungus found?

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More Mushrooms That Are Similar to Coral tooth fungus

Bear's head tooth

Hericium americanum

Bear's head

Hericium abietis