Trametes versicolor (L.) Lloyd 1920 “Turkey Tail” Complex
A thin, leathery white rotter that grows in tiered layers and is associated with numerous trees, mostly hardwoods, throughout the world. Color variations are common, even on a single stump. Cap surface has many velvety multi-colored brown, gray, blue, rust, black and white zones. Tiny pores initially, round to maze-like pores in maturity. White rotter causing decay of lignin leaving the cellulose behind. Trametes versicolor has been used as a medicinal mushroom in China and Japan. It has been employed as part of adjuvant cancer therapy following or in concert with traditional chemotheraphy and radiation to help restore the suppressed immune system. Clinical studies so far showing that it is effective in preventing cancer recurrence is inconclusive as of late 2018, but patients report they experience less pain, a better appetite, and an improved quality of life compared with patients not receiving the same treatment. Has great potential for bio-pulping and bioremediation according to Paul Stamets. Trametes versicolor is easily confused with other zonate fungi, including Lenzites betulina, which has ‘gills’ and particularly Stereum ostrea, which has a smooth hymenium. Trametes is in the Polyporaceae family of the Polyporales order.
Trametes versicolor