Inonotus Dryadeus – Warted Oak Polypore

Scientific name: Inonotus Dryadeus

Common name: Warted Oak Polypore

Type of decay: White rot of stem butt and roots.

Description

Annual brackets appear at the base of stems from July – October. Brackets can be up to 65cm across and 15cm thick. The upper surface is uneven or lumpy initially and whitish-yellow in colour with brown droplets on the surface. The pores on the underside are silvery at first turning yellow with age. Later the bracket becomes smoother on top and browner in colour forming a thin crust. Brackets can sometimes be found away from the stem growing on roots.

Effects of fungus on tree

White rot of lower stem and roots. The rot often only affects the underside of roots and root buttresses leading to de lamination and softening of wood. Ductile fracture can occur with risk of root failure.

Hosts: Predominantly Oak species however less commonly found on other broadleaf species.