Deeproot Plant Base Online - Fistulina hepatica

Plant Base Online (beta)

botanical name:
Fistulina hepatica

common name: Beefsteak Fungus, Ox-tongue
family: Fistulinaceae

characteristics: fungus
height: 0.20m width: 0.15m
growth rate: medium
growth habit:
leaf colour:
flower colour:
fruit colour: maroon
main period of interest: Autumn

edible

growing conditions: part shade, shade, moist soil
prefered soil pH: any
minimum temperature: -23°C
USDA zone: 6 to 9

description:
Parasitic, bracket-type fungus growing on the trunks of broad leaved trees, most commonly oak or chestnut, sometimes on dead stumps and logs. The fruiting bodies are broadly tongue-shaped or semi-circular with a reddish-brown upper surface and yellow-white flesh, ageing to pinkish or reddish brown. They usually appear in late summer or autumn.

usage:
Edible, sold commercially in France.

Causes the wood of the host tree to darken, creating attractively grained brown wood which is much sought after for cabinet making.

other notes:
Commonly found in Europe, including Britain. Also in North America.