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Inonotus hispidus is a large, annual polypore fungus characterized by its distinctive shaggy or hairy upper surface. The fruiting bodies are bracket-shaped, typically measuring 10–25 cm across, and lack a stem, attaching directly to the substrate. When young, the upper surface is soft, spongy, and reddish-orange to rust-colored, covered in coarse hairs (hispid). As it matures, the bracket darkens to blackish-brown and becomes tough, woody, and brittle. The pore surface is initially cream to yellowish, bruising brown upon handling, and eventually turning dark brown with age. Ecologically, it functions as a parasite and saprotroph, causing a white rot in the heartwood of living deciduous trees. It is particularly associated with ash (Fraxinus), apple (Malus), and oak (Quercus) trees. While the fruiting bodies are annual, the mycelium persists within the host tree, often producing new brackets in the same location year after year until the host is consumed.
Widely distributed across the Northern Hemisphere, including Europe, North America, and parts of Asia (China, Japan).
No strains cataloged yet for this species.
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