Inonotus hispidus

[Richard Scott]

Being relatively new to fungi I do not know what to expect but over the last week or so practically every mature ash tree within a five mile radius seems of have developed an I. hispidus growth.
The only trees which do not seem to be ones that have ivy growing on them. Is there some reason for this or is this normal at this time of year?

[Leif Goodwin]

In my experience it is uncommon. I used to see them in Leicestershire, and I saw one a week ago while out for a run near Alice Forest. (Okay, it was 10 m high, but what else could it be on an Ash.) One way you can answer your question is by consulting the mighty oracle, otherwise known as CATE. I checked, and they are reported throughout the year, with plenty in late summer. However, we do not know if they are reporting old brackets i.e when the bracket first appeared. I think it is an annual. Maybe someone else can give you a better answer. BUt I'll keep my eyes open this weekend and see if they are more widespread.

[Richard Scott]

All the ones I am seeing are this year and have developed very recently. I sampled a piece of one this morning for microscopy. Definetely I. hispidus and it was about 35cm x 20cm and it was not there 2 weeks ago. Richard

[Mal Greaves]

I came across a couple today.

[Neil]

It is probably more common than most people realise, as it can grow quite high up.

However I mainly become aware of it when it is old and black and has fallen down onto the ground and broken up. Like this, it is usually very wet like a sponge.
For years I was mystified as to what it was, until I read an article somewhere describing an old, black bracket which had fallen from standing Ash, and looking nothing like the hairy brown bracket when young.
More often found in the south of England though.

Neil Mahler.