About Albatrellus ovinus (Schaeff.) Kotl. & Pouzar
The cap of Albatrellus ovinus is 4–20 centimetres (1+1⁄2–8 in) wide. It starts convex before becoming flat or depressed, and changes color from white to tan or pinkish as it matures. The cap surface is dry and smooth, but cracks with age. The whitish stalk measures 2.5–10 cm (1–4 in) tall and 1–4 cm (3⁄8–1+5⁄8 in) wide, may be branched, and has an equal or larger base. The spore print of this species is white. Albatrellus ovinus is distributed in northern Europe and North America. In North America, it occurs from the Pacific Northwest to Northern California, and also grows in the Mountain states, the Great Lakes area, the Appalachians, and the Northeast. Albatrellus ovinus may be edible when cooked thoroughly, but it is typically slimy and may have a laxative effect. Some field guides do not recommend eating this species. It is sold commercially in Finland.
