Species details
Sheep polypore
Albatrellus ovinus
Traditionally edible
Photo: Holger Krisp · CC BY 3.0 · Photo source · License
Description
A pale, fleshy ground polypore with an irregular cap, often growing in groups and sometimes fused with neighbouring fruitbodies.
Identification features
The underside has fine white pores that yellow with age; the flesh is white and firm, becoming tougher in older specimens.
Identification checklist
Check the entire fruitbody for identification. A pale, fleshy ground polypore with an irregular cap, often growing in groups and sometimes fused with neighbouring fruitbodies. The underside has fine white pores that yellow with age; the flesh is white and firm, becoming tougher in older specimens. Typical habitat: Mainly coniferous and mixed woodland, often with spruce on the ground among moss and needle litter.
How to separate similar species
Compare especially with these similar species: Albatrellus citrinus, Albatrellus subrubescens, Albatrellopsis confluens. Check the entire fruitbody, spore-bearing surface, stem, texture, changes after bruising and habitat. A single feature or photograph is not enough for reliable identification.
Habitat
Mainly coniferous and mixed woodland, often with spruce on the ground among moss and needle litter.
Fruiting period
July, August, September, October
Similar species
- Albatrellus citrinus
- Albatrellus subrubescens
- Fused polypore (Albatrellopsis confluens)