Living Attraction

Beefsteak Fungus

Fistulina hepatica

This striking bracket fungus fruits most years on a dead oak log.

Beefsteak Fungus on a fallen oak tree in Trawscoed hay meadow Creative Commons Attribution Share Alike: Bruce Langridge

Have you ever noticed how the fallen remains of oaks and sweet chestnuts can persist for decades?

Beefsteak fungus is one of the few specialist fungal species that can rot their heartwood. Look for its fruiting body on the large fallen oak along our Welsh Country Walk.  In damp weather, this can ooze a liver-red liquid.