Trametes versicolor

Identifying Features

Turkey tail mushroom is named for its vague resemblace to a turkey tail. The fungus grows in a fan-like shape and has a variable color. Often brown, they may also have shades of white, yellow, blue, and greens.

Turkey tail is a polypore, and has pores on the underside of the mushroom instead of gills. It does not have a stalk.

The mushroom is often velvety and flexible. If bent it does not break easily.

Habitat & Range

These common mushrooms are found throughout the Northeastern US.

Life Cycle

This mushroom is found from late spring to fall. It is often found on dead hardwoods, and is saprophytic.

Featured image by James Dake.