Tinder Hoof
Fomes fomentarius
Do not eat any fungi that has not been properly identified by a qualified professional, some are DEADLY when ingested. All edible wild fungi MUST be cooked.
For comprehensive information (e.g. nutrition, medicinal values, recipes, history, harvesting tips, etc.) please check out our Tinder Conk PDF magazine.
Fomes fomentarius occurs throughout much of the northern hemisphere and in some parts of the southern hemisphere with the ability to live up to thirty years under optimum conditions. It is geotropic meaning it grows down. Tinder hoof has been recognized throughout the centuries for medicinal uses. It is known as a means to boost immunity, enhance blood circulation, regulate blood sugar and lower blood pressure.
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Type
Distinguishing Features
Fomes fomentarius is a tough perennial that usually becomes hoof-shaped and darker with age. It is light grey or brown and grows 6 to 22 cm (2-8”) wide and has no stalk as the fungus thickens at the site of attachment to the wood. It is woody, has a tough surface, with broad, concentric ridges and a smooth underside that is light brown. Annual layers of tubes build up to produce the large hoof-shaped structure.
Height
7 to 25 cm (3 to 10”).
Habitat
Parasitic and saprobic on the wood of decaying hardwoods; this large bracket fungus attacks mainly birch trees but occasionally will grow on beech and sycamore.
Spore Print
White (sheds spores in late spring or summer).
Season
Year round.
Gills
not applicable.
Edibility
It is far too hard to eat so you must break it up and make tea with the smaller pieces. You can also grind into a powder and add it to soups or coffee for added nutrients.
Other Name
Tinder Conk.
Recipes
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