The ball of clustered caps produced by the umbrella polypore (Polyporus umbellatus) resembles an extremely large hydrangea flower, blooming at the base of a tree infected by this white-rot fungus. This parasite will usually reappear in summer or autumn in the same place for several years, as long as the host tree stays alive.
Cap Diameter:
2 - 4 cm
Odor:
Mild, sweet when young; less pleasant with age.
In This Article
Attributes
Similar Species
Tips for Finding
Clean and Preserve
Common Questions
General Info About Umbrella polypore
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Attributes of Umbrella polypore
Cap Diameter
2 - 4 cm
Height
5 - 50 cm
Cap
Cap 2 - 4 cm across; broadly convex, flat; gray to pale grayish brown or whitish; dry; the margin becoming somewhat wavy; often bruising and discoloring yellow
Cap Shape
Convex, Flat, Depressed
Cap Surfaces
Fibrillose-scaly
Gill Attachment
Decurrent
Stem
Irregular, central to the cap; whitish; rusty brown near the base
Stem Surfaces
Smooth to slightly fibrous
Flesh
Fairly soft; white; unchanging when sliced
Ring
Ringless
Spore Print Color
White
Odor
Mild, sweet when young; less pleasant with age.
Body Color
Brown
Gray
White
Flesh Bruises
The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.
Growth Form
Scattered, Gregarious
Nutrient Gathering
Saprophytic, Parasitic
Substrate
Wood of Living Trees, Dead Woods
You can find Umbrella polypore by these plants:
Black cherry
Occurence Habitats
Deciduous Woodland
Species Status
Rare but fairly widely distributed in northern North America
Endangered Species
No
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Habitat of Umbrella polypore
The umbrella polypore is a parasitic fungus that can be found in mixed or deciduous forests. Its fruitbody develops at the bases of the living trees, on large tree roots, and buried wood. It can be also found on dead wood, but mostly because it continues to live for some time after the death of its host.
Distribution Area of Umbrella polypore
North America,Europe,Asia
Hunting Values of Umbrella polypore
May cause allergic reactions when eaten after cooking.
Uses of Umbrella polypore
Umbrella polypore is a mushroom valued for its potential medicinal properties, particularly in traditional Eastern practices. While it is considered edible, caution is advised due to possible adverse reactions in some individuals. Its popularity as an edible species is moderate, and it's often harvested seasonally. Consumers should ensure proper identification and preparation to mitigate health risks before consumption.
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Tips for Finding Umbrella polypore
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When is the Best Time to Find Umbrella polypore
The best time to find umbrella polypore is late summer to early fall, post rainfall. Warm, damp weather with mild nights encourages growth. Seek them when temperatures stay consistently between 15-24°C (60-75°F).
What are Some Tips for Finding Umbrella polypore
Investigate the base of hardwood trees, as umbrella polypore frequently grows nearby.
Look for areas where trees have fallen or appear old and decaying to find umbrella polypore thriving saprobically.
Since umbrella polypore can reoccur at the same spot, revisit previous locations where the mushrooms were found.
Be attentive to clusters of umbrella-like structures on stumps or at tree bases, indicative of umbrella polypore.
How to Clean and Preserve Umbrella polypore
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How to Clean Umbrella polypore
Clean umbrella polypore by gently brushing off any dirt or debris. If more thorough cleaning is needed, rinse quickly under water, but do not soak as it may damage the mushrooms. Ensure mushrooms are dried immediately after to maintain their integrity.
Tips on Dry Preservation of Umbrella polypore
Drying Methods
Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying
Drying Duration
12 - 24 months
Store in dark, cool, dry place with airtight containers to prevent reabsorption of moisture.
Dehydrator drying: Best for thorough, even drying without risking mold due to high moisture content.
Oven drying: Good for a controlled environment, set to a low temperature to prevent scorching.
Air drying: Suitable in low-humidity areas, requires good air circulation to prevent spoilage.
Tips on Freezing Preservation of Umbrella polypore
Freezing Methods
Blanching Before Freezing
Freezing Duration
10 - 12 months
Blanching before freezing: Deactivates enzymes, maintains texture after thawing.
Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Umbrella polypore
Refrigerating Methods
Paper Towel Wrapping, Ventilated Container Storage, Perforated Plastic Bag Storage
Temperature
1 - 4 ℃
Refrigerating Humidity
90 - 95 %
Refrigerating Duration
5 - 7 days
Paper Towel Wrapping: Wrap mushrooms in paper towels to absorb excess moisture, reducing spoilage.
Ventilated Container Storage: Store in containers with air vents to prevent moisture buildup and maintain freshness.
Perforated Plastic Bag Storage: Use these to allow ethylene gas and moisture to escape and reduce decay.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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