One type of mushroom you are likely to encouter all year long are the polypores. These mushrooms are often tough, woody, and found growing on the sides of trees, logs, and stumps.
Common Genera
Ganoderma
Fomitopsis
Trametes
Thorough Review of PNW Polypores
This paper by James Ginns is a thorough summary of polypores in British Columbia. Given the similarity and proximity to the Pacific Northwest, this report easily transfers to this region as well.
Papers like this can take some effort to get through. I haven’t read the entire thing yet. Here are some ideas for quick ways to learn from this paper
– Review the keys starting on p16
– Find the Ganoderma section and read about some common species
– Use the key to try narrowing in on the identity of a polypore you have found or photographed
Another Exercise
I use iNaturalist often to learn more about the mushrooms in a particular area or season. Here is a link to polypore species observed in Oregon and Washington, organized by frequency. Scroll through this list and pick a species to expore further.
Other PNW Polypores
