It rarely grows on any tree but the oak, but I have seen it on the ash, beech, and other trees.
Spine-bearing Mushroom. [Fig. 22.]
(Hydnum repandum.)718.
There is little fear of mistaking this for any other species, as the awl-shaped spines on the under surface are a characteristic feature of the small genus, Hydnum. All the species of any size enjoy a good character; Hydnum repandum being the only common plant of the genus.
It is sometimes most abundant in the few woody places remaining at the north of London, and may often be found on shady roadsides in the humid weather of autumn.
Its taste is slightly pungent when uncooked; but after being submitted to the culinary processes of the kitchen, it affords a charming addition to the table. Its flesh is very firm and delicious; yet, being somewhat dry ([like fig. 11]), the addition of some sauce or gravy lends an additional relish to the stew.
The colour of the fungus is exactly like that of a cracknel; the smooth top is frequently irregular, and the pure solid stem often out of the centre. The top sometimes partakes of a warmer, almost sienna, colouring.