Golden Ear

Golden Ear

　　You’ve probably heard of white fungus, but you’ve likely seldom heard of golden ear. In the forests of southeastern Tibet, on decaying oak trees, grow clusters of peculiar, flower-like organisms shimmering with golden hues — they are the famous Tibetan specialty known as golden ear.

　　Golden ear belongs to the same family as white fungus. Its edible fruiting body is golden, translucent, flat, thin, and curled, layer upon layer, closely resembling blooming golden chrysanthemums. The largest can weigh up to half a kilogram. Like white fungus, it is highly nutritious and serves as a premium tonic for those in weakened health. Even more valuable, the golden ear produced in our region is a naturally pollution-free delicacy.