๐๐๐ณThe October mushroom of the month is ๐๐ข๐ฆ๐ต๐ช๐ฑ๐ฐ๐ณ๐ถ๐ด commonly known as Chicken of the Woods! This choice edible mushroom that can be found perching in oak trees in the fall.
๐ to Barb Danko for naming that mushroom correctly and becoming the 1,312th member of Central Texas Mycology!
You can also be a supporting member to stay dialed-in with events & discover next monthโs mystery mushroom.
FOWL OR FUNGI?
Chicken of the Woods contains several delightfully edible species. In central Texas, the two most commonly encountered are Laetiporus sulphureus (yellow spores) and Laetiporus gilbertsonii var. pallidus (white pores).This fantastic fungi gets its name from its flavor which, as you probably have guessed by now, tastes just like chicken! In Texas, Laetiporus grows on the heartwoods of Live Oaks and Red Oaks and occasionally on downed logs. Because these mushrooms are choice edibles with no poisonous look-alikes, they are a favorite for foragers.
FRIEND OR FOE?
Despite their popularity amongst fungal enthusiasts, Laetiporus is considered to be a nuisance by some arborists. This is mostly due to its status as a parasitic species that promotes brown rot in its host. However, evidence has shown that Laetiporus does not live up to its bad rap. In fact, Laetiporus is actually a cubical brown rot fungi (slow decomposer) and provides habitat for bees and other creatures as it slowly decomposes trees. It has been found growing on thriving 500+ year old live oak trees, proving that the relationship between fungi and host may be more symbiotic than parasitic.
edible + Medicinal
Chicken of the Woods is a highly nutritious fungi making it a great addition to a meat free diet. 100g of the mushroom contains 14g of protein, 6g of carbs, 3g of fiber and 150mg of potassium. In addition, it is
rich in antioxidants, including flavonoids and phenols. These antioxidants have many medicinal benefits, such as anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, and anti-cancer properties. Since it doesnโt have any toxic look-a-likes, it is also a safe and mushroom to forage for beginners.