Fungi Friday ~ Dryad's Saddle

I want to show you a few photos I took of a Dryad's Saddle mushroom. The Dryad's Saddle mushroom may also be known as Pheasant Back mushroom and Hawks Wing mushroom. Those are the common names but scientifically they are known as Cerioporus squamosus or Polyporus squamosus. I think I will just stick with calling them Dryad's Saddle or Pheasant Back.

I want to say that I am by no means a mushroom expert but I think I am correct in the identification of this mushroom that I found. Okay...I didn't really find it but I did photograph it! My husband spotted it on one of our outings. He is great at spotting things that he knows I would like to photograph.

This one was found on the Gunpowder Falls South White Trail in the Hereford Zone. It was growing at the base of an old tree and was surrounded by some branches and foliage. I think it had to be a good 12 inches in diameter.

It is, definitely, a beautiful mushroom and it's also edible although it is best to harvest when they are small. I read that they smell like cucumber or watermelon rind and a hint of lemon . If I caught it when it was young then I would certainly try it. Maybe sauteed with butter and some seasonings or lightly breaded and fried. Older mushrooms can be used to make stock. I probably would never make stock with them though as me and my son are the only ones in the family who care for mushrooms and he mainly only eats mushrooms on pizza.

Dryad's Saddle is high in antioxidants and is a good source of protein and dietary fiber. It is low in fat, sodium and cholesterol and they also contain vitamins B, C and D along with essential minerals. I think it should go without saying but I'll say it anyway...if you aren't sure of the species of mushroom then it is best to leave it alone and just be happy with taking some photos as there are so many species of mushroom that are poisonous and can make you sick and even cause death. "It's best to be safe than sorry"...always! 😉

Thank you @ewkaw for #fungifriday!!