Group of Fungi: Polypores

Family: Ganodermataceae

Latin Name: Ganoderma tsugae Murrill

Common Name: Hemlock Polypore

Description: Paddle-shaped, kidney-shaped or fan-shaped stalked structure; cap 3–12 in (7.5–30 cm) across and 1/2–1 1/4 in (1.3–3 cm) thick, upper surface smooth and shiny (appearing to be "varnished"), brownish orange to reddish brown; margin of cap white to pale yellow; spore-bearing surface white when young but becoming dingy yellow to dull brown with age, pores very small and difficult to see; spores brown in mass.

Biological Role: Decomposer of wood.

Habitat: On fallen logs and stumps of conifers, especially hemlock.

Geographical Distribution: Widely distributed throughout North America.

Comments: This is a truly beautiful fungus when the fresh fruiting bodies are observed in the field against the background of a dark brown hemlock log.