auricularia

Auricularia is a genus of fungi in the family Auriculariaceae, order Auriculariales, class Agaricomycetes. It is commonly known as wood ears or jelly ears, referring to its gelatinous, ear-shaped fruiting bodies.

Description and characteristics

Fruiting bodies are flexible and gelatinous, often ear- or lobed in shape. They range in color from light brown to dark reddish brown and become more translucent when wet. The surface can be smooth or slightly wrinkled, and the texture is typically crisp or gelatinous rather than firm. The genus is distinguished by its ear-like form and growth on wood.

Habitat and distribution

Auricularia species are saprotrophic, growing on decaying hardwoods such as stumps, fallen branches, and logs. They are widespread in temperate and tropical regions and can fruit in different seasons depending on climate. Several species are cultivated for consumption.

Notable species

The genus contains numerous species, with Auricularia auricula-judae (Judas’ ear or common wood ear) and Auricularia polytricha (hairy wood ear) among the best known. A. auricula-judae is native to Europe but is now found globally, often growing on elder trees in the wild. A. polytricha is particularly common in East Asia and is widely cultivated for food.

Uses and culinary value

Auricularia species are edible and prized for their distinctive texture, which remains crisp after cooking. They are widely used in Chinese cuisine and other Asian culinary traditions, typically rehydrated from dried form or used fresh in soups, stir-fries, and braises. Proper cooking is advised to maximize texture and digestibility.

Taxonomy and naming

The genus name Auricularia derives from Latin auricula, meaning ear, reflecting the distinctive ear-shaped fruiting bodies. It belongs to the order Auriculariales and is related to other jelly fungi within the broader Basidiomycota group.

Safety and identification

As with all wild mushrooms, correct identification is important. Some look-alikes may be unsafe, so reliance on reputable sources or expert guidance is advised when foraging or consuming unidentified specimens.