Northern Tooth

Individual caps are semicircular or kidney-shaped and can reach up to 30 centimetres (12 in) across and 2.5–5 cm (1–2 in) at the base. They typically occur in large groups that can reach 80 cm (31+1⁄2 in) in height. Young caps range from mostly white to a yellow-cream color, and slowly become a yellow-brown as they age. The caps tend to persist for multiple weeks, allowing algae to grow, giving them a slightly green appearance. The cap surface can be rough or even hairy, and can have concentric rings radiating out from the base. The underside of the cap has many white spines that reach 1 cm in length and also yellow with age.

The species is a common cause of heart rot in hardwood trees in their native range, It can be found on the trunks of living and recently deceased trees, especially beech (Fagus) and maple (Acer) species. It is native to northeastern North America (August–October), ranging from southern Canada to Kentucky, and as far west as the Great Plains.

C. septentrionalis is edible but not palatable due to its tough flesh and bitter taste.

Novel compounds. Climacodon septentrionalis produces some compounds with potential uses. Esters are natural or synthetic, fragrant compounds that can be found in perfumes and flavorings, or used in paints, solvents, insecticides, and more. The mycelium of this species produces esters that could be used in perfumes. The compound furaneol is a commonly used in the cooking industry as a flavoring, with different forms having tastes ranging from a strawberry or pineapple to a caramel or honey flavor. The furaneol found in C. septentrionalis is extracted from its fruiting bodies, and has a strawberry-like flavor and taste.

== References ==