Ischnoderma resinosum is a species of fungus in the family Fomitopsidaceae. It is commonly known as the late fall polypore, resinous polypore, or benzoin bracket.
The species was originally described as Boletus resinosus in 1794 by German botanist Heinrich Schrader. It has acquired an extensive synonymy in its taxonomic history, having been juggled between several genera. Petter Karsten transferred it to Ischnoderma in 1879 to give it the name by which it is currently known.[1]
Description
This shelf mushroom is 7–25cm (3–10in) across, velvety, dark red/brown, darkening and forming zones in age.[2] Its spongy but tough, sweet-smelling flesh exudes a red liquid when young.
Ischnoderma benzoinum is similar and has darker flesh.[2]
Habitat and distribution
This fungus fruits on hardwood logs and stumps in autumn.[3] A widely distributed species, it has been recorded from Africa, Asia, Europe, and North America.[4]
Uses
Young, soft specimens may be cooked and eaten, but the species becomes hard and unpalatable later in life.[5]
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