Dryad's Saddle (Polyporus squamosus) or Pheasant Back Mushroom is a bracket fungus common throughout the forests of North America, Europe, Asia and Australia.
The Dryads -- tree fairies of Ancient Greek mythology -- were believed to use the mushrooms as seats or saddles. Alternatively, the pattern resembles the back feathers of a pheasant. Thus the names.
This fungus is responsible for "white rot" that attacks many dead or dying hardwoods. The mushroom is usually found on old stumps or logs. While it has a preference for Elm, it can be found on almost any hardwood.
It usually fruits in the late spring at the same time as Morels. While edible, given the choice between Morels and Pheasant Backs, the Morels definitely win out.
The saddles can reach widths of up to two feet and can often be seen growing in clusters. They have a smell that resembles watermelon.
