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Turkey tail

Trametes versicolor

A species of Trametes, Also known as Turkeytail fungus

The distinctively-striped turkey tail fungus grows on stumps and logs all over the forests of the northern hemisphere. It is, in fact, probably the most common species you will find. That doesn't mean this mushroom is plain, however; each cap is uniquely patterned. Look for bands of alternating textures as well as color.

Cap Diameter:

2 - 8 cm

Odor:

Faintly woody or with no distinct smell.

General Info About Turkey tail

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Attributes of Turkey tail

Cap Diameter

2 - 8 cm

Height

1 - 3 cm

Cap

Cap 2 - 8 cm across, 1 - 4 cm deep, 1 - 2 mm thick; plano-convex to flat, fan-shaped; gray, brown, cinnamon; flexible when fresh, densely hairy or velvety

Cap Shape

Convex, Flat

Cap Surfaces

Fibrillose-scaly, Velvety

Gills

Have a pore surface instead of gills

Stem

No Stem

Flesh

1 - 3 mm thick; leathery texture, tough; whitish

Spore Print Color

White

Odor

Faintly woody or with no distinct smell.

Body Color

Brown

Bronze

Gray

Flesh Bruises

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

Growth Form

Clustered

Nutrient Gathering

Saprophytic

Substrate

Dead Woods

You can find Turkey tail by these plants:

Oaks

Occurence Habitats

Deciduous Woodland, Coniferous Woodland

Species Status

Not Evaluated

Endangered Species

How to Identify Turkey tail

Fruiting Body Cap Flesh

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Habitat of Turkey tail

The turkey tail prefers hardwood, though it is sometimes found on conifers. It feeds on decomposing stumps and dead logs, and occasionally on standing trees as a weak parasite.

Distribution Area of Turkey tail

North America, Europe, Africa, Central and South America, Antarctic islands, Asia, Australia, New Zealand

Uses of Turkey tail

Turkey tail is renowned for its medicinal properties, particularly in traditional Eastern medicine. It's not commonly eaten but highly valued for its potential immune system support and anticancer effects. Turkey tail extracts are used in supplements and teas, with availability peaking during specific seasons. While not a culinary choice, it holds significant collection value for its health applications. Users should consult healthcare providers before use due to varying individual reactions.

Interesting Story of Turkey tail

Turkey tail may be eaten by caterpillars of the fungus moth Nemaxera betulinella and by maggots of the Platypezid fly Polyporivora picta and the fungus gnat Mycetophila luctuosa, but is considered inedible to humans.

However, this mushroom, known as yun zhi [雲芝] in China, is used in traditional Chinese medicine; it is supposed to boost the immune system and have anticarcinogenic properties. Its polysaccharides are thought to be the effective constituents. Clinical trials in people with breast cancer, leukemias, and liver cancer remain inconclusive as of 2016.

Name Story of Turkey tail

Meaning 'of several colors', versicolor in its Latin name reliably describes this fungus that displays different colors. Because its shape and multiple colors are similar to those of a wild turkey, it is commonly called Turkey Tail.

Scientific Classification of Turkey tail

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Shelf fungi

Family

Polyporaceae

Genus

Trametes

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Tips for Finding Turkey tail

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When is the Best Time to Find Turkey tail

Seek turkey tail during late fall to early winter, as cooler temperatures and moist conditions after rainfall favor its growth. Always after a decent rain and when daytime temperatures are between 50-65°F (10-18°C).

What are Some Tips for Finding Turkey tail

Look for turkey tail on fallen hardwood branches, trunks, and logs, as they are their favorite substrate.
Identify turkey tail by searching for dense, overlapping clusters or shelf-like formations on deadwood.
Search in areas with abundant hardwoods, such as near beech or oak trees, for potential turkey tail growth.
Inspect stumps and fallen wood, especially where the wood appears aged or decaying, as turkey tail feeds on such materials.
Be attentive to tree wounds or exposed wood, which can provide an entry point for turkey tail to colonize and grow.

How to Clean and Preserve Turkey tail

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How to Clean Turkey tail

To clean turkey tail, brush off any debris gently with a soft brush. If necessary, quickly rinse under running water and immediately pat dry to maintain the mushroom's integrity.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Turkey tail

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying

Drying Duration

12 - 24 months

Store in a cool, dark, and dry place with airtight containers to prevent moisture reentry.

Dehydrator drying: Efficient for mushrooms with high moisture, maintains quality, quick and even drying.

Oven drying: Good for small batches, use low heat to avoid uneven drying.

Air drying: Suitable for mushrooms in dry, warm climates; no energy cost, but slower process.