Source-reviewed species profile

Wood ear Auricularia auricula-judae

Brown ear-shaped gelatinous fruit body with a finely hairy outer surface. This profile covers broad field features, season and habitat for learning.

Where can I find wood ear?

Dead or weakened deciduous wood, often elder.

In Mycoverse you can select Wood ear and compare candidate search areas using a species-specific assessment of rainfall, estimated soil moisture, temperature, forest type, tree signals, canopy cover, terrain and season. Where source coverage is available, the assessment also uses historical species observations. Historical observations are historical data, not recent finds.

Learning content – not identification

Images, text and app suggestions cannot confirm a species or food safety.

Field features

  • Brown ear-shaped gelatinous fruit body with a finely hairy outer surface.

Habitat and search guidance

Dead or weakened deciduous wood, often elder.

Months

January–December (most frequent October–May)

Safety status

Included with a food status in the Norwegian 2026 Norm List. This learning profile never confirms a finding or that it is safe to eat. Use qualified local expertise.

Sources and review status

Last reviewed: 25 August 2026.

Take the profile outdoors.

Follow the species, view local seasonal signals and use field guidance in the app.