Species details

Split gill

Schizophyllum commune

Inedible
Split gill – Schizophyllum commune

Photo: pynklynx · CC0 · Photo source · License

Description

A small fan-shaped stemless wood fungus known for the characteristically longitudinally split gills beneath.

Identification features

Fruitbodies are white to grey, fan- or shell-shaped and attached laterally to wood. The radiating gills are split lengthwise.

Identification checklist

Check the fan shape without a stem and especially the gills, whose edges are split longitudinally into two layers.

How to separate similar species

Crepidotus and other small wood fungi lack the characteristically split gills.

Habitat

Grows on dead or damaged wood of many broadleaved trees, less often conifers, and can be found through much of the year.

Fruiting period

March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November

Similar species

  • Crepidotus species
  • Lentinellus species
  • Panellus species

Extended-description sources