Pig's Ear

Gomphus clavatus

✓ Edible

Always verify identification with multiple features before consuming

Cap color: purple,brown,tan
Cap size: medium
Gill color: none
Gill attachment: none
Stem: Short, pale; fused fronds; no ring
Texture: smooth
Habitat: forest floor
Fruiting season: fall
Peak season: August–October (RM); September–November (PNW)

Key Identification Features

Purple to lilac-buff club/vase shape (5–15 cm), distinctly wrinkled and veined pore-like surface on the outside (not true gills), lavender-purple color is key. Grows in dense clusters under conifers, especially spruce and fir. Club-shaped base. Sometimes called "pig's ear" for the ear-like form.

Preparation Notes

Good edible when young; older specimens can be bitter. Sauté; distinctive flavor. The purple color fades with cooking.

Regions Found

Region data not available

Look-Alikes

No documented look-alikes on record.

Safety disclaimer: This page is for educational purposes only. Never eat a wild mushroom based solely on online information. Always verify identification using multiple reliable field guides and, when possible, consult an experienced forager or mycologist. When in doubt, don't eat it. Spore & Scout accepts no responsibility for identification errors or adverse reactions.