Pig's ear

What it is

Pig's ear is a club-shaped, compact fungus with a lilac or violet tint. It is also called the violet chanterelle. Its shape and colour set it apart from the chanterelles it resembles, but its form is distinctive.

It is native to Eurasia and North America. It grows mainly in old-growth forest, with spruce, pine and beech, and in beech forest on calcareous soil.

Eating and preparation

The sources describe it as edible. One account praises its meaty texture and earthy flavour; another finds it firm and dense with a musty, earthy aroma, and some people find it bland. Svampguiden rates its taste 3 out of 5 and gives no flavour or cooking advice.

Cooks commonly slice it very thinly, as with chanterelles, and sauté it. Its season is mainly summer and autumn, extending into winter in warmer regions.

Conservation

Svampguiden lists the species as Endangered and red-listed. Its numbers have fallen as old-growth forests have been cut, so the guide asks foragers to leave some young and old fruit bodies at the site so that spores can disperse.

Look-alikes and safety

The blue chanterelle, Polyzellus multiplex, has a similar shape with different colouring. Svampguiden gives inconsistent statements about look-alikes, so do not rely on the form alone.

This record is not a guide to identifying wild mushrooms. Confirm identification with an expert and check local protection rules before picking.