Stereum hirsutum
Description
Fruiting bodies are annual, bent or outstretched-bent, fan-shaped, less often in the form of a rosette, adherent to the substrate with the entire lateral side, rather small (2-3 centimeters in diameter), thin, rather rigid. Often grows in large groups, in long rows or tiled.
The upper surface is hairy, yellow, yellowish brown or greenish, with concentric stripes, darker at the base. Greenish tint is given to it by green epiphytic algae. The edge is wavy, sharp, bright yellow. The underside is smooth, in young specimens the color of egg yolk, with age it becomes yellow-orange or yellow-brown; if damaged, it darkens slightly, but does not turn red. From frost fades to grayish-brownish shades.
Ecology and distribution
It grows on dead wood - stumps, windbreak and individual branches - birch and other deciduous species, causing white rot. Occasionally infects weakened living trees. Quite widespread in the northern temperate zone. Growth period from summer to autumn, in mild climates throughout the year.
Edibility
The mushroom is inedible.
Similar species
Felt stereum (Stereum subtomentosum) is larger; a velvety (but not hairy) upper surface colored in more reddish-brown shades; dull brownish lower surface and adhesion to the substrate only part of the lateral side (sometimes very small).