The hairy hexagonia (Hexagonia hydnoides) is not the most common mushroom you'll find, but has very distinctive qualities. Stiff, dark brown, bristle-like hairs emerge from an ochre flat cap and are found growing from a decaying tree stump or wood. The large pores on the cap's underside create an almost sponge-like appearance, and the stem is otherwise not visible.
Cap Diameter:
5 - 10 cm
Odor:
Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.
In This Article
Attributes
Similar Species
Tips for Finding
Clean and Preserve
Common Questions
General Info About Hairy hexagonia
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Attributes of Hairy hexagonia
Cap Diameter
5 - 10 cm
Height
1 - 2.5 cm
Cap
Cap 5 - 10 cm across; irregularly semicircular, convex or nearly flat; brown; surface with hairs
Cap Shape
Convex, Flat
Cap Surfaces
Fibrillose-scaly
Flesh
Rusty brown; not changing when sliced
Spore Print Color
White
Odor
Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.
Body Color
Brown
Black
Flesh Bruises
The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.
The hairy hexagonia is a mushroom common in the tropics. It occurs in woods and wooded areas, and it grows on dead or decaying wood, preferably stumps and logs.
Distribution Area of Hairy hexagonia
Southern North America,Africa,Central and South America
Hunting Values of Hairy hexagonia
Used medicinally in certain areas, such as Mexico, for treating some skin diseases.
Uses of Hairy hexagonia
Hairy hexagonia is primarily recognized for its medicinal properties. It is not a commonly edible mushroom, but it holds value in traditional medicine practices. The popularity of hairy hexagonia stems from its potential health benefits, though specifics are not widely documented. Seasonal availability may influence its collection value. Users should note that while hairy hexagonia has therapeutic uses, accurate information on dosage and preparation is crucial to ensure safety.
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Tips for Finding Hairy hexagonia
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When is the Best Time to Find Hairy hexagonia
Search for hairy hexagonia during wet, rainy seasons when moisture levels are high, typically in late autumn or early winter. Warmer days following a rain period increase your chances of finding them.
What are Some Tips for Finding Hairy hexagonia
Investigate around fallen hardwood trees, logs, and branches, as hairy hexagonia usually colonizes such substrates.
Look for hairy hexagonia on deadwood that seems to be decomposing, as hairy hexagonia is known to be saprobic.
Search in areas where tree branches or logs are in contact with each other since hairy hexagonia can grow alone or in groups.
Examine the undersides of logs and fallen branches, as hairy hexagonia might not be immediately visible from above.
Inspect areas with plentiful deadwood, as these provide more opportunities to find hairy hexagonia.
How to Clean and Preserve Hairy hexagonia
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How to Clean Hairy hexagonia
For cleaning hairy hexagonia, gently brush off any debris using a soft brush or cloth. If necessary, lightly dampen the cloth to wipe the surface of the mushroom. Handle hairy hexagonia cautiously to preserve its physical integrity. Do not use soapy water or chemical cleaners. Dry hairy hexagonia promptly with a soft, dry cloth if dampness was applied.
Tips on Dry Preservation of Hairy hexagonia
Drying Methods
Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying
Drying Duration
6 - 12 months
Store in a dark, cool place with low humidity and good air-tight containers to prevent reabsorption of moisture.
Dehydrator drying: Ensures consistent air circulation and temperature control, ideal for moisture-rich fungi.
Oven drying: Set at the lowest setting with door slightly open for moisture escape, suitable for quicker drying.
Air drying: Naturally ventilated area, strung or spread out on a wire rack; slow but energy-efficient method.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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