Polyozellus multiplex

Polyozellus multiplex is a species complex of fungi first described in 1899. P. multiplex is commonly known as the blue chanterelle, the purple chanterelle, or, in Alaska, the black chanterelle. However, this mushroom is not closely related to true chanterelles. While this name used to refer to a group of species, it is now used to describe only one species that held onto the name P. multiplex. The fruiting bodies of this species are blue- to purple-colored clusters of vase- or spoon-shaped caps, with veiny wrinkles on the underside which run down the length of the stem. P. multiplex was considered the monotypic species of the genus Polyozellus until recent molecular research divided the P. multiplex species complex into five species. The genus name is derived from the Greek poly meaning many, and oz, meaning branch. The specific epithet multiplex means "in many pieces," referring to the compound nature of the fruiting body.

P. multiplex may be found growing on the ground in coniferous forests, usually under spruce and fir trees. It is an edible species, and has been harvested for commercial purposes. P. multiplex contains the bioactive compound polyozellin, which has been shown to have various beneficial physiological properties, including suppressive effects on stomach cancer.