Hen of the Woods Grifola frondosa

Identification
This mushroom forms large gray clustered fronds.

Location
Common statewide

Size
10 to 40 pound clusters

Diet
It feeds on decaying wood.

Habitat
It occurs in mature hardwood forests.

Activity Period
September to November

Behavior
It grows at the base of oak trees. It appears in cool autumn weather.

Lifecycle
Fruiting occurs in autumn.

Population
The population is stable statewide.

History
It has long been known in Ohio.

Human Interactions
It is edible and highly valued.

Facts
It can grow to massive size.

Sources
ODNR academic sources

Wood decay | Oak bases stumps | Statewide