Cauliflower fungus

Identification

A large cream mass of flattened ruffled lobes at a pine base — looks exactly like a cauliflower or an egg noodle clump.

Edibility

A choice edible when young and cream-colored; the folds trap debris, so it must be washed carefully before cooking.

In practice

• At a pine base + noodle-fold mass = unmistakable.
• Older yellowing specimens toughen; take firm pale ones.