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Giant polypore

Meripilus giganteus

A species of Meripilus

The giant polypore (Meripilus giganteus) is a tough-fleshed shelf or bracket fungus that can be found parasitizing the roots, branches or boles of trees - especially hardwoods - across temperate regions of Europe and Asia (a very closely related species, Meripilus sumstenei, is distributed across North America - some sources list these two species as synonymous).

Cap Diameter:

10 - 50 cm

Odor:

Mildly mushroomy, not distinctive.

General Info About Giant polypore

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Attributes of Giant polypore

Cap Diameter

10 - 50 cm

Height

10 - 30 cm

Cap

Individual cap up to 10 - 50 cm; fan-shaped; pale tan, darkens in age; finely fibrillose with tiny scales; quickly darkens black when bruised or injured

Flesh

Coarse

Ring

Ringless

Spore Print Color

White

Odor

Mildly mushroomy, not distinctive.

Body Color

Brown

Bronze

Flesh Bruises

Discolor to gray or black

Growth Form

Clustered

Nutrient Gathering

Saprophytic, Parasitic

Substrate

Wood of Living Trees, Dead Woods

You can find Giant polypore by these plants:

European beech, Oaks

Occurence Habitats

Deciduous Woodland

Species Status

Widely distributed in Europe.

Endangered Species

How to Identify Giant polypore

Fruiting Body Cap Flesh

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Habitat of Giant polypore

The giant polypore is found in numerous woodland and urban settings, but it's primarily associated with deciduous trees such as beech and oak. It grows from the base of trees, around stumps and decaying wood, and even if it seems like growing from the ground, it's actually parasitizing the buried roots of trees.

Distribution Area of Giant polypore

North America,Europe,northern Asia

Hunting Values of Giant polypore

Only edible when young, if not properly cooked, some might experience stomach discomfort after eating.

Uses of Giant polypore

Giant polypore is appreciated for its culinary potential, particularly when young and tender. However, its edibility comes with caveats due to possible confusion with toxic species and potential gastrointestinal discomfort. Its popularity is moderate among foragers who value it during its autumn fruiting season. While not a mainstream edible mushroom, giant polypore offers an adventurous choice for seasoned mushroom hunters, but caution and proper identification are paramount to ensure safe consumption.

Scientific Classification of Giant polypore

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Shelf fungi

Family

Meripilaceae

Genus

Meripilus

Toxicity and Edibility of Giant polypore

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Is Giant polypore Toxic?

The massive and meaty caps of the giant polypore may look similar to the delectable oyster mushroom when young, but these caps are known to cause unsettled stomachs and gastrointestinal symptoms in some people that eat them. Consumption is therefore discouraged.

Similar Species to Giant polypore

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Tips for Finding Giant polypore

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When is the Best Time to Find Giant polypore

Search for giant polypore from late summer to autumn, ideally after periods of rain. Look when daytime temperatures are moderate and nights are still above freezing.

What are Some Tips for Finding Giant polypore

Search around the base of beech trees, as giant polypore frequently grows in these areas.
Inspect any freshly cut or decaying stumps for signs of giant polypore, as they tend to colonize this substrate.
Check around the roots of recently-felled broadleaf trees where giant polypore could be emerging.
Be aware that giant polypore may also appear at the base of other deciduous trees such as oaks, elms, and limes.
Explore less commonly, but possible sites, such as the base of coniferous trees like pines and larches where giant polypore might also be found.

How to Clean and Preserve Giant polypore

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How to Clean Giant polypore

To clean giant polypore, gently brush off any debris with a soft brush. If necessary, lightly dampen a cloth and wipe the mushroom's surface. Do not soak, as giant polypore may absorb water and become difficult to handle.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of Giant polypore

Freezing Methods

Blanching Before Freezing

Freezing Duration

10 - 12 months

Blanching before freezing: Preserves texture and reduces enzymatic action.

Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Giant polypore

Refrigerating Methods

Paper Bag Storage, Cloth Wrapping, Original Packaging Storage, Perforated Plastic Bag Storage, Spread-Out Storage

Temperature

2 - 4 ℃

Refrigerating Humidity

90 - 95 %

Refrigerating Duration

5 - 7 days

Paper Bag Storage: Store in paper bags to allow air circulation and mitigate moisture buildup. Change bags if they become damp.

Cloth Wrapping: Wrap mushrooms in a damp cloth, keeping them cool and preventing dehydration without trapping excess moisture.

Original Packaging Storage: If sold in a porous container, keep it unsealed in the fridge for ventilation and to maintain freshness.

Perforated Plastic Bag Storage: Use perforated plastic bags to balance humidity control and air exposure, reducing the risk of spoilage.

Spread-Out Storage: Place mushrooms on fridge shelves without overcrowding to enable air flow around each specimen.

Common Questions People Also Ask

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