Odor fragrant, somewhat spicy. Spore deposit white. Edibility Edible and choice, but cleaning debris from the branches can be a deterrent. As its common name suggests, the densely branched fruiting body of Sparassis crispa resembles a cauliflower. Sparassis crispa is believed to be parasitic on conifers.
Affected trees produce annual fruitings, sometimes bushel basket in size.
The size, color, and flattened branch structure of Sparassis crispa distinguish it from other members of the coral group.