Hairy Curtain Crust

Hairy Curtain Crust Stereum hirsutum (Fr. Stérée hirsute) is an abundant and widespread bracket fungus species in Tourangelle forests. Sometimes grey in colour, but most often yellowy orange, with a white edge and the top surface covered in short greyish hairs that create a nap like velveteen cloth. The wavy edged semi-circular brackets are leathery and about 5 cm across. The spores are colourless. The species grows on the dead wood of deciduous trees. It is not the sort of mushroom anyone would eat unless they are into cardboard.

 

The smooth orange underside.

The species has a number of lookalikes and it is necessary to examine the underside carefully. It should be smooth and orange, and not change colour when bruised (an indication it is a different Stereum species). If the underside is creamy white, has pores, or little warts then think about alternative identifications such as Aleurocystidiellum, Trametes or Eichleriella. It is very tough and can be very visible all year round, even during droughts. Many mycolologists have observed that it is particularly abundant after a fire.

One sure way of identifying both species is if there is Golden Ear Tremella aurantica in proximity to Hairy Curtain Crust. The Golden Ear is a parasite of the Hairy Curtain Crust, and will slowly envelope and consume it.