Birch Polypore
Birch Polypore - Fomitopsis betulina
Alternative names
Razorstrop Fungus
Piptoporus betulinus
Piptoporus betulinus
Description
A large annual bracket with a short thick lateral stem. The flesh is white, covered with a pale grey-brown papery 'skin'. The pores are rounded or angular, and small; 3 - 5 per mm.
Recording advice
Photograph upper and lower fertile surface to show pores; note host plant and substrate
Habitat
Exclusively on fallen dead Birch wood and on standing dead or dying tree trunks.
When to see it
All year round
Life History
The alternative name of Razorstrop Fungus originated because it has been traditionally dried and used for sharpening knives and razors.
UK Status
Very common throughout Britain
VC55 Status
Very common in Leicestershire and Rutland.
Leicestershire & Rutland Map
Enter a town or village to see local records
MAP KEY:
Yellow squares = NBN records (all known data)
Coloured circles = NatureSpot records: 2025+ | 2020-2024 | pre-2020




