Coastal BC Fungi: Artist's Fungus
Artist's Fungus
Here's a tree that caught my eye because of the fungus growing up its trunk. I believe the tree was a fir, and it was healthy looking. There were so many fungi, and they ranged all the way from the roots up to about fifteen feet. Doing some research online, I believe it is Granoderma applanatum, more commonly known as shelf fungus or artist's fungus. It's called artist's fungus because carvings on the white underside will darken to create scrimshaw-like images.
The tops were brown, almost the same colour as the trunk. The undersides were a brilliant white.
To me, these two merged fungi look like pursed lips. You see, even Mother Nature can be an artist. -- Margy
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I love the photos. In Alaska we called this Bear Bread - not because bears actually eat it - but I think simply because the white part looks like bread. I've painted scenes on it - they look really great. You set the fungus on the flat part that is attached to the tree and the rounded part forms a nice arch across the top of the painting. I never seen it on a live tree - only dead ones - I wonder if this tree was doomed and the fungus knew it and moved in early.
ReplyDeleteI can see why it's called Bear Bread. I've used it as is to decorate a shelf along with driftwood. I love natural things around the cabin. - Margy
DeleteSo interesting and a unique pallet for a creative artist. I love learning new things like this...never know when it might come in handy. Thanks for stopping by CollectInTexas Gal and my first ABC Wednesday with your memories of kindergarten and first grade...Dick and Jane...awesome.
ReplyDeleteSue at CollectInTexas Gal
You are welcome Sue. It was a fun memory that you sparked. - Margy
DeleteART and fungus...hmmm...
ReplyDeleteROG, ABCW
Thanks everyone for stopping by to comment on my ABC post. - Margy
ReplyDeleteI have heard that fungus growing on trees is edible, not that I would try it without being desperate, but I never knew that it could be used for art.
ReplyDelete