Tree fungus/ tinder sponge
Tree fungi are in the broadest sense all fungi that colonize and decompose wood. These fungi are scientifically called lignicolous fungi. This is a very large ecological group, which includes species of various groups of fungi.
Zunderschwamm a mushroom species from the family of the stem porling relatives. It infests weakened deciduous trees and forms thick, inverted console-shaped fruiting bodies on the trunks. The perennial formations reach diameters of up to 30 cm.
The name of the sponge originated from its earlier use as a tinder. Until the 19th century it was used to make haemostatic, disinfectant wound dressings.
In Romania, the trama (flesh of the fruit body) is made into elaborate hats, bags and the like and sold to tourists.