Maze-gill fungus

Description:

Daedalea quercina is a species of mushroom in the Polyporales order. It is the type species of the genus Daedalea. The sessile, fan-shaped fruiting bodies are typically 3–20 centimetres in diameter and up to 8 centimetres thick. They are found singly or in tiered groups, usually on rotting oak. The upper surface of the cap may be various shades of brown, and is sometimes zonate. The pore surface, white to tan in color, is initially porous, but as the fruit body matures, some of the pore walls break down, forming slits with blunt partitions. This results in the characteristic maze-like appearance. The tube walls are 10–30 mm long, with thick walls. The basidiospores are 5–7 × 2–4 µm, smooth, and elliptical in shape. In deposit the spores are white. This mushroom is inedible due to its cork-like texture.

Habitat:

Daedalea quercina prefers to grow on Quercus species, although it has also been found on several other tree species. It has been reported from nearly all European countries, following the pattern of oak distribution. It has also been reported in Northern Africa, Asia from Caucasus to India, and also Australia.

Notes:

Spotted in rural area of Deventer, Holland.