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What is Wood Ear Fungus?

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

The Wood Ear fungus is a type of jelly mushroom found widely distributed in the Northern Hemisphere, although it is more commonly cultivated and used for food in parts of Asia. Wood Ear often appears in Chinese and Japanese food, where it lends an interesting texture which can sometimes be off putting to Western consumers. Wood Ear is also listed on menus as Black Tree Fungus or Kikurage, and is formally known as Auricularia polytricha.

The Wood Ear fungus does strongly resemble an ear, as it forms folds and whorls while it grows on the trunks and bark of mostly dead trees. Like other jelly fungi, the Wood Ear tends to jiggle slightly, and has a slightly crunchy, slightly rubbery texture which is retained even after cooking. The mushroom ranges in color from black to an unusual albino variant, and has a smooth, dry surface. It is most commonly found on hardwood trees, and prefers damp, dark weather. It can be a fun and interesting find in the woods, and like other jelly fungi is very easy to identify, making it an excellent teaching tool.

Wood ear fungus can be stored in a paper bag in the refrigerator for up to two days.
Wood ear fungus can be stored in a paper bag in the refrigerator for up to two days.

Wood Ears can be found in most Asian markets in dried form, and in some regions fresh varieties are available as well. Dried Wood Ear fungus can be rehydrated with boiling water and used exactly like fresh mushrooms in soups, stir fries, and stuffings. The mushroom is mostly used for its texture, to add a different mouth feel to foods. Unlike other edible jelly fungi, the Wood Ear has no appreciable flavor, although it will readily absorb flavors from other foods cooked with it. For this reason, it is commonly used in hot and sour soup as well as stir fries.

Wood ear fungus and colorful vegetables are staples in many Chinese stir-fry dishes.
Wood ear fungus and colorful vegetables are staples in many Chinese stir-fry dishes.

Studies of the Wood Ear fungus have suggested that it may also have medicinal benefits. In addition to lowering cholesterol, the fungus also acts to prevent blood clotting. Because the fungus inhibits clotting, sensitive individuals should avoid consuming large amounts of it, as it has been known to cause internal bleeding. Other scientific studies suggest that this fungus may also be valuable as a nutritional cancer fighting tool.

When looking for fresh Wood Ear fungus to purchase, look for firm, evenly textured specimens with no slimy or wet spots. The fungus should wobble when jolted, and have a uniform color. It can be stored in a paper bag under refrigeration for up to two weeks, or dried for future use. Dried specimens will also have a relatively even color, and should be tightly sealed with no signs of moisture or mold. They can be stored in a dark, room temperature cupboard for up to one year.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a DelightedCooking researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a DelightedCooking researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

Planch

I don't know how comfortable I'd be with eating something that looks like ears, especially if it comes off of rotting wood. It would make an awesome Halloween meal though!

EarlyForest

I had never heard that wood ear fungus was associated with wet or dry rot, but I know that you can only find it on rotting wood. But I'm pretty sure it's not one of the dry rot fungi, since they don't look at all like ears.

pleats

I had always heard that black wood ear fungus was a kind of dry rot fungus -- is this true, is this fungus at all associated with wood decay or dry rot or wet rot?

anon8041

are they sexual or asexual?

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    • Wood ear fungus can be stored in a paper bag in the refrigerator for up to two days.
      Wood ear fungus can be stored in a paper bag in the refrigerator for up to two days.
    • Wood ear fungus and colorful vegetables are staples in many Chinese stir-fry dishes.
      By: Periwinkle Studio
      Wood ear fungus and colorful vegetables are staples in many Chinese stir-fry dishes.