BASIDIOMYCETES: Aphyllophorales, Hydnaceae

Bear’s Head Tooth, Hericium coralloides

Basidiomycetes, order: Aphyllophorales, family: Hydnaceae

Width to 18"

The Bear’s Head Tooth forms a network of fleshy, white, or creamy brown branching structures that terminate with drooping, icicle-like spines to ½" long. Clumps of these formations attach to dead logs or stumps in hardwood forests by means of an indistinct, clinging base. Spore print is white. The mushroom is found in northeastern North America during the summer and fall, although similar species are found in the West. It is edible and very good but quite rare. Also known as Waterfall Hydnum.