Grifola frondosa, or Maitake, popularly known as “hen-of-the-woods,” is a polypore mushroom that grows at the base of trees, particularly old-growth oaks and maples. Maitake mushrooms have a delicate, fan-like shape that resembles feathers. Their nickname comes from this resemblance. Native to China, Europe, and North America, Maitake mushrooms are typically found from late summer to early autumn and grow wild in forests at the base of hardwood trees. While they can be cultivated at home, they thrive best in the wild.