Common Name(s)
Chicken of the Woods, Sulphur Shelf
Preferred Substrates
Hardwood logs and stumps
Environmental Conditions
Spawn Run: 70-75
Pinning Initiation: 65-70
Fruitbody Development: 60-70
Difficulty
Moderately Difficult
Notes
Laetiporus sulphureus, commonly known as Chicken of the Woods or Sulphur Shelf, is a brightly colored edible mushroom with a taste and texture reminiscent of chicken or other poultry. The mushroom is characterized by its bright yellow to orange hue and overlapping shelf-like growth on hardwood trees, especially oak, cherry, and beech. Chicken of the Woods is high in protein and vitamins, making it a popular choice for vegetarian and vegan diets. It is important to note that some individuals may experience gastrointestinal upset after consuming Laetiporus sulphureus, so it is advised to consume a small amount first to gauge personal tolerance. Cultivating Chicken of the Woods at home can be challenging, as it requires specific conditions and substrates. Inoculating hardwood logs or stumps outdoors is the most successful method for home cultivation.
* The PNW version known as Laetiporus conifericola prefers conifer wood