Charcoal Fungus
ExploreFungi
Charcoal Fungus
Fomes fomentarius
Charcoal Fungus is a special kind of mushroom that grows on trees. It looks black and is often found in forests.
Habitat: Forests
Appearance
The Charcoal Fungus is a tough, hoof-shaped or shelf-like fungus, often gray to brownish-black on its upper surface with distinctive concentric growth rings. Its underside is usually a pale, creamy white or gray, covered in tiny pores. It looks like a hard, stony growth on tree trunks.
KingdomFungiPhylumBasidiomycotaClassAgaricomycetesOrderPolyporalesFamilyFomitopsidaceaeGenusFomes
Category
FungiRarity
Rare
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Snaps
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Interesting facts
Ancient humans, like Ötzi the Iceman, carried this fungus for survival!
It can live for many years, adding new growth layers each season.
Its tough inner layer can be pounded into a leather-like material called amadou.
Some people use parts of it to make unique, non-toxic art paper!
Special abilities
Ability
Wood Recycler
Charcoal Fungus has enzymes that help them break down dead wood, recycling nutrients back into the forest.
Ability
Nature's Bandage
Charcoal Fungus can absorb liquids and stop bleeding because its inner tissue is highly absorbent, used historically as a styptic.
Ability
Insect Shield
Charcoal Fungus has compounds that help them deter insects, protecting its fruiting body from pests.
Measurements & details
- Height
- 5-30 cm
- Edibility
- inedible
- Cap Diameter
- 5-45 cm
- Growth Substrate
- wood
- Season
- Year-round
- Spore Color
- White
Ecological connections
parasitizes
European Beech
Fagus sylvatica
Causes decay in the heartwood of the tree.
parasitizes
Silver Birch
Betula pendula
Contributes to the decomposition of dead wood.
eaten by
Fungus Beetle
Orchesia micans
Larvae feed on the tough bracket fungus.
Traits
Shade Tolerant
Shade tolerant plants are adapted to grow and thrive in areas with low light levels, requiring less direct sunlight.
Spore Producing
Spore-producing organisms reproduce by releasing small, often single-celled, reproductive units called spores.
Forest
Forest habitats are terrestrial environments dominated by dense tree cover, supporting a high diversity of plant and animal life.
Also known as
Burnt Fungus
Collections
Safety
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Do not pick or eat anything you find. Some plants and mushrooms can be harmful.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall is Charcoal Fungus?
5-30 cm
Is Charcoal Fungus edible?
inedible
How big is Charcoal Fungus?
5-45 cm
Where is Charcoal Fungus usually found?
Forests
What does Charcoal Fungus grow on?
wood
When is Charcoal Fungus in season?
Year-round
What color are Charcoal Fungus spores?
White
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