Witches’ Butter (Tremella mesenterica) is a distinctive and frequently encountered fungus. Its vibrant appearance often sparks curiosity about its characteristics and edibility. This article clarifies whether Tremella mesenterica is safe to consume.
Identifying Witches’ Butter
Tremella mesenterica typically displays a bright yellow to orange fruiting body, characterized by its gelatinous, brain-like, or convoluted shape. This jelly fungus can grow up to 7.5 cm (3 inches) in diameter and feels greasy or slimy when damp. Its texture is notably jelly-like and rubbery; it shrivels into a thin film during dry periods but rehydrates with rain. Witches’ Butter is commonly found on dead deciduous wood, particularly on oak logs or branches, and appears during wet periods throughout the year.
Is Witches’ Butter Poisonous?
Tremella mesenterica is non-toxic and edible. While safe for consumption, it is not highly valued for its flavor, as it typically has a bland taste. The primary appeal of Witches’ Butter lies in its gelatinous texture, which can add an interesting element to dishes. It is occasionally incorporated into certain cuisines, such as Asian desserts or soups, or utilized as a thickening agent. Despite its non-toxic nature, consuming substantial quantities of any wild fungus, including Witches’ Butter, might lead to mild digestive upset in sensitive individuals.
Common Look-Alikes
Several other fungi may be mistaken for Tremella mesenterica due to their similar appearance. Tremella aurantia, sometimes called Golden Ear, also presents a yellow to orange gelatinous fruiting body. A key difference lies in their host: Tremella aurantia parasitizes Stereum hirsutum, a different wood-decaying fungus, while Tremella mesenterica targets Peniophora species.
Another similar fungus is Dacrymyces chrysospermus, also known as Orange Jelly, which typically grows on conifer wood and often appears more distinctly orange. Differentiating these species involves examining their host wood, subtle color variations, or growth patterns. Always rely on accurate identification by experienced individuals before consuming any wild fungus.
The Ecological Role of Witches’ Butter
Tremella mesenterica functions as a parasitic fungus within forest ecosystems. It is a mycoparasite, meaning it derives nutrients by feeding on other fungi. Its primary hosts are various wood-rotting fungi, particularly those belonging to the genus Peniophora. While Tremella mesenterica appears to grow directly on dead wood, it targets the hidden mycelium of these host fungi, which are responsible for decaying the wood. This interaction contributes to the overall decomposition process and the recycling of nutrients within forest environments.