Strange oak fungi - help ?

[KEVKERAL]

Dear all,

 

We have a large old oak which I recently discovered had a cavity in which was filled a houmous/porridge like substance (pic below). Could anyone shed any light on what it is and if it's a problem for the tree ?

 

Thanks in advance !

[David Humphries]

Hello Kev,

 

your 'substance' is difficult to place a positive Identification on, but my first thoughts would be (based on tree species host) being the very desiccated and soggy remains of Laetiporus sulphureus (chicken of the woods) which produces an annual fruit body between May & September.

 

'If' it is Laetiporus, then the fungi is a heart rotter which leaves behind a brown type decay of the parts of the tree it is devouring.

 

In terms of how much of a problem it is likely to be, well thats a mine field & difficult to ascertain via the internet.

 

Ideally, I would suggest that you employ a professional Arborist to carry out an aerial inspection of the tree.

 

 

 

 

Ofcourse it may be something entirely different

 

 

 

.

[Bren.]

My thought was the same.

Not sure that one's edible anymore though.

[KEVKERAL]

Many thanks for the response. I agree, the next step should be a proper assessment.

[treeseer]

Many thanks for the response. I agree, the next step should be a proper assessment.

 

Yes. Proper assessments begin with the obvious fact that the tree has the strength to stand up to all that's been thrown at it so far, consider all the benefits and value to people and other associates, and end with a proper list of treatments to improve the tree's condition.

 

Decay of heartwood is natural, flushing the tree's toilet.

[treeseer]

Many thanks for the response. I agree, the next step should be a proper assessment.

 

Yes. Proper assessments begin with the obvious fact that the tree has the strength to stand up to all that's been thrown at it so far, consider all the benefits and value to people and other associates, and end with a proper list of treatments to improve the tree's condition.

 

Decay of heartwood is natural, flushing the tree's toilet.