Principle species colonised

A variety of conifers, such as yew, and broadleaves, especially oak, sweet chestnut, and cherry.

Area affected

The main stem, buttresses, and principal roots are all impacted. located on the main branch network as well.

Type of decay

Both early and late wood have cellulose-rich regions where decay is concentrated. Typical brown cubical rot appears and finally turns into a powder. Due to the distinct kind of lignin and the lower lignin content of the cell wall of temperate broadleaved species, the decay tends to be faster in broadleaves than in conifers. Because of adverse circumstances, the fungus can produce chlamydospores, or resting spores, in wood that it has invaded but not yet decomposed.
Until conditions are favourable for germination, growth, and decay, these can remain dormant for many years.

Fruit body / fungal structures

A single bracket or a set of overlapping fronds aligned vertically make up the meaty fruit body. When young, it is yellow-orange, sometimes turning orange-red, although it normally gets paler before deteriorating into a crumbly white substance.

Seasonality and perseverance Annual: primarily emerging from early summer to autumn, dying in a matter of months, yet occasionally continuing into the following year in a dry, white state.

Significance / Effect / Impact

The tree becomes vulnerable to stem or branch breakdown when a significant amount of the wood is deteriorated. Structural timbers can potentially be deteriorated by L. sulphureus. It is the primary hollowing agent of our old oak, yew, and sweet chestnut trees, which can coexist with the fungus for centuries.