The small disks (1/4″ or less across) are found on many live, as well as on fallen trees. They usually have their sides curled up during dry conditions, but they open when wet to form pale brown disks with tan, fuzzy fringes. They are attached at the center and are white hairy underneath.
As the name implies, this fungus grows on Hophornbeam (Ostrya virginiana), but also on Oak (Quercus) and Elm (Ulmus). This abundant fungus may be seen at Fontenelle Forest and Neale Woods throughout the year.
This fungus grows on the outside of the tree bark as a parasite, not from under the bark. It does not seem to threaten its hosts. This fungus belongs to the crust fungi which look like thin, spreading, leathery sheets or even paint smears on wood. This fungus is easily identified from its shape, texture and host tree.
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