Auricularia densely hairy: photo and description, use

Auricularia densely hairy is a characteristic representative of tree mushrooms of the Auriculariaceae family, the fruiting bodies of which resemble an ear. Because of this similarity, there are local definitions – tree, or Judas’ ear. Among mycologists, fungi are known as Auricula, or Exidia, or Hirneola, polytricha, Auricularia auricula-judae. Sometimes the name “forest meat” is popular for fruiting bodies of a densely hairy species, due to its high nutritional value.

Auricularuia densely hairy prefers to grow on tree trunks.

Where does Auricularia densely hairy grow?

The species is distributed in the tropics and subtropics – Southeast Asia, North and South America. In Our Country, densely hairy auricularia are found in the Far East. Conditionally edible ear-shaped mushrooms of other species are common in forests. The thick-haired variety prefers to settle in a warm and humid climate on the bark of broad-leaved species, especially on oaks, on old or fallen wood. Fruiting bodies are found from late spring to October. Auricularia has long been cultivated in China, Thailand, Vietnam, Japan, using elm, maple, elderberry, sawdust, rice husks, and straw for the substrate. Ear-shaped species from China called Muer, or Black Fungus, are exported all over the world. Auricularia densely hairy is also grown in different countries.

What does auricularia densely hairy look like?

Sessile fruiting bodies of the species are large:

• up to 14 cm in diameter;
• height up to 8-9 cm;
• cap thickness up to 2 mm;
• the leg is completely invisible, sometimes absent.

The hat is funnel-shaped or ear-shaped in shape, the color is in gray-brown tones – from yellow-olive to dark brown. The surface is densely covered with brown hairs, up to 600 microns high, which makes the mushroom look like a plush formation from a distance. The inner surface may be purple or grey-red. After drying, it becomes dark, almost black.

The cartilaginous pulp is gel-like, brown in young specimens, dry and dark in adults. During the dry period, the mushroom body decreases, and after the rains, it returns to its original volume and soft texture. After drying, the pulp is hard, almost horny. Spore powder is white. Mushrooms produce many spores that are dispersed by the wind. The fruiting body develops over 70-80 days. It bears fruit in one place for 5-7 years.

Is it possible to eat densely haired auricularia

The pulp of the species is considered conditionally edible. In the cuisines of Southeast Asia, especially in China and Thailand, it is widely used. Mushrooms are used both as an exquisite delicacy and as a healing dish.

The taste of the mushroom

The fruiting bodies of Auricularia densely hairy have no smell and no noticeable taste. But they say that after the heat treatment of dried raw materials, an appetizing mushroom aroma comes from the dish. After research, it was found that mushrooms contain a small amount of the substance psilocybin, which can cause hallucinations.

Application in folk medicine

Since Auricularia densely hairy is widespread in Southeast Asia, it is very popular in traditional Chinese medicine. It is believed that dried and powdered pulp, taken according to special recipes, has the following properties:

• dissolves and removes stones from the gallbladder and kidneys;
• is an effective prophylactic for high blood pressure and excess cholesterol in the blood;
• cleanses and removes toxins from the intestines, is used for hemorrhoids;
• relieves inflammation of the eyes through lotions, and also alleviates the condition with diseases of the larynx;
• promotes blood thinning and prevention of thrombosis;
• plant colloids of auricularia prevent the deposition of fats, so the fungus is used for obesity;
• active ingredients neutralize free radicals and prevent the development of cancer cells.

Similar species

In the medicinal species Auricularia densely hairy, there are several false twins, representatives of the same genus, which are distinguished by the length of the hairs:

• horny – Auricularia cornea;
  
  

  Skin with a border and small hairs of olive-green or yellow-brown tones

• ear-shaped;
  
  

  Surface with barely noticeable pubescence and brown-reddish or yellowish skin

• filmy.
  
  

  Thin, sinuous caps slightly pubescent, brown or yellow-gray

All types of auricularia do not contain toxic substances, but some are considered inedible.

Collection and consumption

The collection, as well as the cultivation of the species, is carried out by specialists. The jelly-like pulp is used after cooking. Prepare hot meals and salads. It is recommended to eat mushroom dishes no more than 2 times a week.

Conclusion

Auricularia densely hairy has gained popularity with its healing properties. Dried raw materials are bought in departments of supermarkets.