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Variable Oysterling - Crepidotus variabilis

Oftentimes we can get so caught up in looking where we're going, that we forget to look up. I am especially guilty of this, as I'm always on the lookout for fungi, scanning the sides of paths and fallen logs everywhere I go. It's quite easy to forget that trees are very tall, and that fungi can be found at many heights.

It's a good job I looked up when I was standing beneath a cluster of Variable Oysterlings, or Crepidotus variabilis.

They were growing off a twig on a dead tree. Oysterlings are unlike any other fungi I've seen, as they generally don't have stems and from below look like little circles. From above, they are a kidney shape.


They are relatively common and can be found growing in large groups from late summer to winter.


Characteristics

Habitat: On dead twigs and other decaying material, including at the base of hedgerows.
Cap: 0.5-2cm across, kidney-shaped. White in colour.
Stem: No stem.
Gills: Moderately crowded, radiating from the point of attachment. First white, turning brown with age.
Spore print: Pinkish buff
Season: Late summer to winter
Edibility: Inedible

It should be noted that although they are named Oysterling, not all fungi in this group are edible. The same can be said for Oyster mushrooms. Always make sure you're 100% certain of your identification before eating anything you find.

Disclaimer: I am not an expert. Never eat a mushroom you've found without confirmation that it is edible by an expert.
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