#dye polypore

Dye Polypore - Phaeolus schweinitzii

What you see in the photo is a quite large (about 20 cm) polypore belonging to the species Phaeolus schweinitzii (Polyporaceae) found near base of a Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii).

This bracket fungus is also known as Dyer's Mazegill due to its use in dyeing yarn various shades of yellow, orange and brown, depending on the age of the fruiting body and the type of metal used as a mordant to bind the dye molecules to the fibres of the fabric.

Phaeolus schweinitzii is inedible and can be found in North America and Europe.

References: [1] - [2] - [3]