Jelly ear once had a more derogatory or racist name. This is largely because of the Latin name (Auricularia auricula-judae) which relates to Judas Escariot and the species’s association with elder. Judas is said to have died from hanging in an elder tree but that is almost certainly impossible because it is a very soft wood. The ears are said to be a remnant of his spirit. I call it jelly ear, as do all up to date field guides.
https://danieljamesgreenwood.com/2019/12/13/fungifriday-december-jelly-ear/
It’s “Judas Iscariot” but the “escariot” made me think “Judas Escargot.”
So, did it used to be “Jew ear”?
Huh. Ew.
Jelly Ear is much nicer, all around.
Huh. Chinese been calling this wood ear for idk for how long. Delicious fungi.