What is It?
This genus of white rot fungus is saphrophytic with head hardwoods in Eurasia, Japan, Africa, Central and South America and the southern areas of North America. There are currently 25 distinct species within this genus, all sharing a distinct honeycomb shaped gill structure from which it derives its common name, honeycomb fungus.
Is it edible?
Honeycomb fungus is not considered a choice edible mostly because of the texture. However, in 2020 a paper was published on the commercial cultivation, nutrition and food potential of this tropical mushroom in the Amazon where it is native and collected by the Yanomami people, who already sell more than 10 Amazon mushroom species. You can learn more about their mushroom culture in this film by @beatrizmaues.
Foraging Tips
Look for honeycomb fungus on the trunks and base of dead and rotting hardwoods, such as oak and pecan in central and east Texas.The best time to harvest is when the fungus is soft and fresh, before they have begun to harden and turn yellow. Check this months foraging forecast on our blog for more tips on cooking with this shroom from @forage.atx!