Mushroom ID please?

[mainbutter]

We found this mushroom and thought it looked like a "hen of the woods", which we've only eaten once (store bought). Never having picked wild mushrooms before, I figured I'd ask if this is anything worth keeping.

There is a similar thread of someone asking the same question, and the phrase "past prime" came up. If this is an "edible", how can I tell if it's still worth eating?

Thanks for any suggestions!

[Stick in Mud]

They look like past prime hens to me....remember that spot, cuz they'll probably be back next year.

There can be quite a lot of variation in color, though, so check the fronds. Are they still flexible, or are they getting brittle and dried out?

[mainbutter]

Some spots are brittle and dry, others are flexible.

Nothing wrong with TRYING to eat it, I assume? Anything else it's good for other than a pretty crazy decoration?

[Stick in Mud]

Is the tube layer on the underside of the fronds white?

[pushbutton]

Would also "think" it is a past prime hen. If you are adventurous, could see trimming off some of the "shot" stuff and concentrating on the some of the stuff in the middle and to the left of your foot. If it was a little warmer, there would be a good chance it would be buggy, and suspect you would now be eating some dormant bug larva as well, not a big deal... full of protein....but just some perspective Seriously though, am sure you would not be the first to eat parts of one this far along.

[mainbutter]

Is the tube layer on the underside of the fronds white?

Yup. Does that imply anything?

[Stick in Mud]

Usually the pore surface gets discolored (towards a tan/brown) as they age.

I honestly can't tell from the picture if it's still good. Might be worth a try.

[Matt Breuer]

"Past prime" hen is a really wide term I've found. If a hen is dried up, but still has some flex, it can be rehydrated, or used for stock. I wouldn't eat one if it had mold or was wet and crumbly..