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hen of the woods

fungus
Also known as: Polyporus frondosus

Quick Summary

Hen of the woods, also known as maitake, is an edible bracket fungus (Grifola frondosa) found in North America and Eurasia. It grows in large clusters at the base of trees, forming wavy, fan-like caps that are typically pale gray to brown. This fungus is prized for its earthy flavor and is also recognized for its medicinal properties. It is considered one of the easier wild mushrooms to identify.12

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