Mushrooms C COj))'rtght LO$ANGE - 63400 Chamall!}rt!'I - france M,maglng Editor: Chaumeton Pro)l'Ct Coordinauon: Mu"eI Bresson Oe5ign ar.d Layout: Nathalie Lao:haud, Laurent. Isabelle Veret Typesetting, $t!}phaJlle Henf)', VerOOlQue Ja,.,."er, Chantal Mlaion The author and the editorlillteam WO\.IklIIKe to acknowledge the kInd il5S1Stance of Ren!}- JiKques Bouteville of lhe Avvergne Natural SOCIety, who IS also a member of the Soci My<:oIoglque de fraoce, and thank hIm for h>s help and <KMce. Orl9l1'1i1l tItle: Le mJllI-<}ulde de champ.gnorrs ISBN of the German J8331-13146 CopyrIght C 2005 for th>s English ed,tron; Tandem Verlag GmbH KONEMANN is a trademark and an Imprint of Tandem Ve!1ag GmbH Translatron from french: JOSephIne BiKOO, Chanterelle Tran'ilalions, London Adilptatron of the English editlOll : Jo5ephIn. BOKon Typesel1lng: Chanterelle Tran'llatIOrlS. London: OMs. Cologne PrOject coordinatIOn: Morkraml!f Pnnted In SlovakIa ISBN ]8]] 1- 1809- I 109B7654]21 X IX \1111 Vr1 VI V IV IU I Th", tJr:x* has been researched, and the Illust ratrons contaIned hereon collated. Wllh the great- est of care, nevertheles5, there can be rIO guarantee that the contents are completely free of errOf. The IdentlflCatron of edible and porsooous mushrooms always, In Pf3CtlCe. underlies an e,..,errenced gatherer's subJectrill' OV'l'fall IJdgmefl\ of varIOUS characteflnru, the publisher can therelore accept no respor1lo1brlity for the safe usage of these (jesjgnallOlls, arnvor posSIble mIstakes concerning Ihem. NeIther the autOOr' and editors. nor the publ>Sher can be hekl responsrble lor any damages whal50ever that may arISe flOm the use of the contents ollhls ""'" The Pocket Guide to Mushrooms Jean-Marie Polese KONEMANN PREFACE T his is a field guide to wild mushrooms, also known as fungi. It does not include all of the species, of course, because there are several thousand of the macrofungi, those which can be seen with the naked eye, but you will find the most frequently found species in this book. The mushrooms featured here are generally found throughout the temperate zone of the nonhern hemisphere, though there may be slight variations from one continent to another. A few species have a more restricted habitat but are quite common in those areas in which they grow. A certain number of species which are especially frequent or which are of particular interest due to their edibility or toxicity are dealt with in greater detail and are more extensively illustrated. This book will be of interest to the amateur mycologist as well as to the novice mushroom-picker who wants to be able to identify fungi precisely and accurately, and even to the more experienced picker who would like to extend his or her knowledge to other species, whether they are edible or nol. In order to give the reader some idea of how mushrooms are classified, we have used the method adopted by French mycologists who are the European authorities. Shape, color, odor, taste, and habitat are all properties that are unique to each species. It is rare to be able to recognize a species on the basis of one of these faaors alone. It is usually a combination of several characteristics that enable identification of a specimen with certainty. All this makes mycology, the study of fungi, a discipline which increases powers of observation and exercises the critical faculties. It also arouses a sense of wonder and increases feelings of humility when faced with the extraordinary diversity of nature and the amazing creative genius of which the kingdom of the fungi is proof. We hope that this book wi ll lift the veil from certain aspects of the strange and fascinating world of wild mushrooms. CONTENTS Introduction 8 Anatomy of a fungus 10 What is a fungus? 12 Ecology 16 Mushrooms and Man 19 Picking and eating 21 Key to identification 26 The Ascomycetes 32 The Phragmobasidiomycetes 58 The A[lhyl lo[lhorales 64 The Tricholomatales 106 The Aqaricales 178 The Entolomatales 230 The Cort inariales 240 The Russulales 284 The Boletales 316 The Gasteromycetes 352 NonCE TO READERS The Wusmtions and descriptions of spe:cics in this book have Men p r o u ~ e with the greatest ClIte. If you an in the slightest doubt, however, as 10 the edibilily of ~ mushroom, do not eat it, and consult an identi6eation txpert. Glossary Index H: height L: length 0: diameter 366 369 ANATOMY OF A MUSHROOM
n IH OA m .M--- -t M ETHOD OF ATTACHMENT OF GILLS TO THE STI PE , OF CAP CA' TEXTURE AND SHAPE OF STIPE Convex Umbooate I I I Downy Reticulate Funnel-shaped
u SlI"II.IOUS O,l!).wped Bulbous Thin M ARGIN OF CAP 0
r::efal - Smooth Enrolled B ULB 9
Undulating Of 5inuous Fluted
SUialed V OLVA Sac-like Sheath-like Ridged bulb WHAT IS A FUNGUS? Fungi were ollCe classified as plants. but today they are 10 be in a class of their own, neither vegetable nor animal, inhabitants of the fungal kingdom. Unlike plants, they do not have siems, leaves, or rool$. Fungi contain no chlorophyll, the sub stance that enables plants to manufacture their own food, w they are fOlced to find food from their environment, in the same way as animals The mushroom that is visible is actually jusl the largest part of an organism most of which lies in the soil. embedded in leaf litter, humus, de<ayiflg wood, and similar habitats A fungus looks like a network of very fine Iii- aments, which are called hyphae, and which are invisible to the naked eye when found in isolation. Howev!'!, hyphae often cling together and their density makes them visi- ble in the form of a white, feltlike wbstance or as thin strings. The mass of hyphae is (ailed a mycelium. My<:elia (an often be found in early fall beneath the moss which grows on the forest noor, Some mycelia (an be found growing over sevefal dead leaves which they dump together. This is the case The fall is {he liesllime of year 101 finding and picking mushrooms. with certain species 01 Cl itocybe. A particu- larly thick mass 01 mycel ium can sometimes be seen on the pine needles thaI carpel the Hoor of coni ferous forl'Sls, l'Specially spruce. The real function of a fungus is 10 produce spores, its minute dispersal organs. That is why mycologists cali the visible mushroom the fruiting body or w(X.Jphore (from the Greek karpos meaning "fruit" and p/l!:Jm; "support" or "bearer "). The fruiting body is also known as a sporophore (from the Greek spora meaning "seed"). life cycle of the fungus A fungus produces spores which, once in the substrate, germinate into a very fi ne, white filament which branches out in all direc tions. This primary mycelium is incapable 01 producing a carpophore on its own. In order for this to happen, the mycelium needs to encounter a filament from another spore 01 the same species 01 fungus. but one which is genetically different. The two types of fila ment merge to create another type 01 fila- ment, the secondary mycelium, which is ler- tile and is capable 01 producing a mushroom. Very often. it takes more than Mycelium has caJ.JSed the /edves IlrI this brarlCh /0 Clump logether " " two types of genetically different spores to produce a fruiting-body; as many as four, may be required, which makes procreation a rather complicated process! Fungi produce a huge number 01 sporl'S. The champion in this respect is the Giant Puff- ball. a real spore' making factory. This fungus can exceed 16 inches (40 em) in diameter. According to an eminent mycolo- gist. a single specimen is capable of releas ing 10billion spores into the atmosphere! Despite the amazing number of spores pro- duced by fungi, they clearly have nO! invaded the planet. In facl, in nature, sporl'S very rarely develop a mycelium. ftIr instance, groups of Marasmius oreades. the Fairy Ring Champignon, are to be found every year in abundance in certain meadows, wh il e neighboring meadows, which have the same agricultural. physical, and chemical proper- ties. never have a single specimen, even though spores must have drifted over from the neighboring field and landed there countless times over the years. Although certain mycelia are known to live for centuries (an example is the abovemen- tioned Fairy Ring Champignon) the mycelium of other specil'S die every year. The cycle then starts over in the 'opOres which germinate in the substrate, producing new filaments and new mycelia, and eventually new carpophores. How mushrooms are formed At a (enain moment in the life of the filaments, under condi- tions which are still a mystery, they start to dump together instead of growing in all direc- tions. A little lump then appears on the filaments. a ball of hyphal threads the size of a pinhead. This is called a prifrl()(dium and it is the start of what will become the car- pophore of the mushroom. So the carpophore consists of a grouping together of filaments which in other organisms would be comparable to a group of cells combining to form tissue. Only when the frui ting body is fairly well developed (an the species be identified. Mycelium on its own is very hard to attribute \0 a spe<ies. especially with the naked eye. Although it is often said that mushrooms only grow if they find themselves in a favor- able environment, the reverse is actually the case. If mycelium is grown in the laboratory under ideal conditions, it never produces fruit ing bodies. Mycelium needs a form of stimulation which will cause it to react and emerge from its vegetative state. If it believes that its survival is under threat, it will produce a response to ensure its (ontin ued existence, and this takes the form of a sporophore. The fruiting body will enable the fungus to survive in adversity and germinate Several species 01 wild mushrooms lIlal grow irt woods are rrow cufljvated commercially These irtClurJe the Oyster Mushroom. the Blewil (pic- tured here). aJ1(/ the Shaggy Irtk cap as soon as condi tions imprO'v'e. This pheno- menon has been successfully explOited by mushroom-growers. To produce the store or Portobello mushroom. growers (O'v'er the substrate which is impregnated wi th the fun- gus mycelium with a layer 01 sandy soil, se\'. eral inches thick, stimulating the production of frui ting bodies. In the case of Blewits, a wild variery that has only recently been culti vated, the triggering fador is a sudden drop in temperature. A lovely lorest in glorious fall weE/her is an invilaiioolo go mushroom-hurtling. ECOLOGY Fungi afl' normally divided into three cate- gories depending on where they find their food and their behavior in the growing environment. - Saprophytic fungi feed on dead organic vegetable mailer (leaves. twigs, logs, etc.) or animal remains (carrion, exc- reta), This is the case, for instance, wi th all the fungi that grow on dead trl'e trunks or logs, such as the Honey Fungus, those which grow on dead leaves, such as the Blewit, or the weird-looking Ear-pick Fungus. which grows on fallen pine cones. Fungi playa vel)' important role in the decomposition 01 all types of waste and in the formation of humus which enriches the soil. Some micro- ,",opic fungi are valuable aids in lhe fields of medicine and food preparatfon, The 81ewe1 is a saprophyte which grows 01/ oalr or beech leaves. Penicillin is extracted from a Penicillium nota tum; yeast, used in brewing and bait. ing, is also a type of fungus. - Parasitic fungi grow on living plants and animals and thrive at their expense. The most frequently encountered species are Polypores or the fungi that form a lichenlike crust on the trunks or brarxhes of living lTees. The spores find their way into a wound where they germinate or they Sapropftylic lungi play an ifTX)ftant role in nature, by cleaning up dead trees and plant rJebris. allack a host in a weakened state and kill it Numerous spe<les 01 lungi are both parasites and saprophytes, be<i:luse they con- tinue to feed 011 a host e\'en afte( they MV1! it. This is the case with two tree para- sites, the TInder Fungus. also known as the Hoof Fungus (Fames fomentarius) and the Honey fungus (AImillaria melleaJ. Such fungi are eV1!n capable of living an entrrely sapro- phytic existeoce, only invading wood when it is dead. The microsc:opic fungi Of molds which cause plant diseases. such as rust, smut, wilt, and mildew to such devastating effe<t are also parasites. Fungal diseases of animals are called mj'{oses. The commonest in humans are Athlete's Foot and Ringworm. - The mycorrhizal fungi . These are fungi that live in symbiosis with a plant, generally a tree, Symbiosis is a system in which two living beings live ofl each other to their mutual advantage. The my<:elium combines wi th the rootlets of the plant, which take on a swollen appearance. The resulting combination of root and my<:elium is called a my<:orrhiza, a latin word which literal ly means "fungus-root " 1\ is in the my<:orrhiza that the exchange of nutrients takes place. The plant supplies the mush room with carbohydrates resulting from photosynthesis. In exchange, the fungus feeds the green plant with water and min eral salts, especially tho!>e which the plant finds hardest to convert from the soil. such as nitrate!>. it is able to do this because of il5 den!>e of my<:elial filaments which are in closer contact wi th the soil than the rootlets of plants. It thus creates a sort of extension of the rootlets, increasing the area of contact between the soil and the rootlets. Symbiosis is not confi ned to trees but is practiced by many other plants, including heather, orchids, and even cereals. In fact, three- This strange. long, Ihin fungus is a species of CordyCepS. COfdyceps ophiogI05S(lil1eS. It parasilizes other fungi. in this case a subterrane.lI1 truf fle-like fungus called Elaphomyces muricalus Of Deer Truffle quarters of all green plants benefit from a mycorrhizal asW{iati on. Some. such as orchids. al l' even incapable of life without it. The system of exchanges enables the green plants that benefit from it to grow quickly and strongly. Experiments conducted by many research organizations show that saplings, in part icular, derive great advan tage flam a symbiotic association with a fungus. The fungi evl'l1 participate actively in pro- tecting the tree by releasing chemicals into the soil which prevent attack by predators and pests. Some fungi have even been shown to create nets of mycelium in which Myr;orrhyzal fungi ate ~ i m s associaled with a single species. such as lhe Elegant Bolele (Suillu$ grevillei) which only lives unrJer /arch. to trap and destroy the nematodes (tiny worms) and other insect pests that gnaw away at the rootlets of plants and seriously damage, stunt, or kill them. In exchange for the great service rendered by the mycorrhizallungus, the plant or tree supplies the lungus wit h mgank matter which it is incapable of producing by itself. MUSHROOMS AND MAN Man has alw<I)'S been cur ious about and fascinated with fungi. The mystery surroond ing their growth. the way they appear so suddenly (Shakl'Speare's "midnight mush- rooms"). the strange circles which are formed by some spe<:ies in meadows or for- est dearings. and the violent reactions they can cause to the human organism, including serious poisoning and even death, have inspired fear and superstition. Even loday, many people have a phobia about wild mushrooms, despite the fact thai fungal Fly Agaric (Amanita musraria), for instance has been used since at least the eighteenth century in the rituals of native peoples of Siberia, Nonh America, and Lapland. Fairy rings 01 mushrooms have given rise 10 many lales and beliefs. Some mushrooms, such as this Liberty Cap (Psilocybe semilanceata) afe hallucinogenic. - Nordic tribes have taken advanlage of tile fJal/ucinogeflic SiJlJslances found !n Fly Agaric (Amanila muscaria) In central America and Mexico, hallu- cinogenic fungi of the genus Psilocybe were used by the priests of pre-Columbian civilizations. They may well have been sacred or even deified, as certain figurines and rep- resentations of the mushroom would appear to indicate. Mushrooms must have pfayed quite an important role in the of early man. They are still eaten in abundance, but generally as a flavoring or delicacy, though vegetarians appreciate them as a meal substitute. The Tinder Fungus and similar woody species probably enabled our ancestors to po-eserve fire and carry il around with them. This fungus burns very slowly and retains an incandescent spot. At a later date, it used in tinder boxes. hence its name. The Styptic Fungus (Panel- Ius stypricus) was used in staUf\(h- ing wounds. as the name implies. Fungi have also been harnessed to industry. They are indispensable in If mixed with poIasslum mlrate. Ille Tinder Fungus will burst inlo flame when struck 10 produce a S(J8rk. The decoIallVfJ (Jfoperlies of Corio Ius versicolor ale used in lIower-amnging making bread, cheeses, alcohol, penicillin, and many other useful items. The corky flesh of the Birch Polypore (PiptOPOM betulinus) was used to make a leathery substance on which barbers sharpened their cut- throat razors, hence it s old-fashioned name, the Razor-Strop Fungus. Thus quite apan from their food value. fungi are employed in various areas of human e!1deavor, including the arts and flower-arranging, The Many-ZOfled Polypore ((orio- Ius versicolor) is often used in dried flower arrangements. as are some members of the Pleu- rotus family which are cultivated for their bfighl colors.. Fungi also have many negative aspects, in that they can ravage crops. cause illness in humans and animals, and destroy any type of vegetable fThll1er that is not carefully stored. The mold which is used 10 make blue cheese is /he mycelium 01 a fungus called Penicillium PICKING AND EATING One of the best-known properties of fungi is the edibility of certain mushrooms. In some parts of the world, including (emral and eastern Europe. Turkey, and North America, fungi are assiduously collected for Ihe table. Whether they are to be eaten at home or picked for salt! \0 markets and restaurants, the number of wild mushrooms currently picked has reached a tonnage that ddually surpasses that of cultivated mushrooms such as the store or PortobeHo mushroom, the Paddy Straw Mushroom, and Shiitake Mush- rooms consequently play a Significant part in the human diet. They are &lIen throughout the world from the cold countries to the trop- ics of Africa and Asia. Mushroom consumpt ion is patchy, however, depending 011 the country or region and local tradition and custom. tn Southeast Asia, for instance, especially Indonesia, the Philippinfls, and China, mushrooms have been eaten lor centuries. In these countries. mushroom-growing is a cottage industry. Indonesia is the world's biggest produ<:er of Paddy Straw Mushrooms (Vo/varieJ/a valvae",a). In China. many fungi are use<! in Chinese medicine. In Africa, the most popu' lar edible mushrooms are of the species Ter- mitomyces, wtl ich grow on termite nem. Europe is divided into two camps. the coun- tries which rejeo wild fungi and those that eat them with relish. The former group COf!' sists mainly of the United Kingdom and Scandinavia, as well as parts of Spain (though the Spanish eat the Saffron i l ~ Cap). The latter group includes several west ern European countries, especially France, Italy, Ger many. and Switzerland, as well as the countries of cen- lIal and Eastern Europe. In France, for example, con sumption amounts to sev- eral kilograms of wild mush rooms per per!oOn per year. Eastern Europe has a very Every fall, an abundance of wild mushrooms appear on markel slal/s in Europe. ancient tradition 01 gathering wild mush- rooms and a large number of spe<ies is eaten. Some, such as the Peppery Milk Cap (UK/ilriu5 piperilllJ5) considered inedible elsewhere, are used as seasonings. Rules for picking wild mushrooms For eating purposes, o n ~ pid those wild mushrooms that yoo have idenlified with certainty. It is best to pick them before they are lully mature, but beware of those which are very young, whose shape and color could be interpreted in various ways. Young sperimens, rKognizable by the firm ness 01 their I ~ s h are much tastier than older ooes. Yoonger mushrooms stay firmer during cooking and are less likely 10 be worm-eaTen. A IunglJS foray in Ifre (ores) in search of chanlerelles. Some spe<ies must be removed whole from the grOUnd. with their stipe and base. in ordef to avoid any dangef of mlStakffi iden- tily (such as confusing the Blusher with tile Panther Cap). OthelWise. fungi should be cut away at ground level with a knife. In the case of fungi which are easily recognizable but whose stipe is tOO tOugh to eat. such as the Parasol Mushroom (Maaolepiora pro cera). only the cap should be BeIOl'e placing the mushroom in )'OUr bas- ket. remove any dirt or debris dinging to it. Try and bring home a harvest of mushrOOfTlS which are as and dean as possi ble. be<ause as WIll be explained iatl'l'. it is best to avoid washing mushrooms before cooking them. 00 not scratch around or dig up the dirt around a mushroom. or root around disturb- ing moss or dead leaves to find specimens. In p/acts tnat only they CN/ tw. Children love to go looking fix rrvshtooms. Th! tMhioom-pdets I!q/Jrpmetl/ /$ It!fY $/_ COiISISJlng merely 01 a SlICk. a sharp knife. a bifsk!I and shJrp eyes. or you will be disturbing the medium 00 I'I'hidlIhe myceIitIn grows and may kill the fungus. II you are careful to pick mushrooms wilhom disturb- ing their growing medium, you will not compromise their future growth. Mycelium present in the soil could produce anothl'l' speCImen during the same glOwing season or in the followrng year. Try not to mix differem species in the same basket. Those with fragile flesh should be separated from firm, fleshy speties which might crush them and reduce thl!m to an inedible pulp. Mushroom cui sine Mushrooms ought to be eaten as soon as possible after they have been picked. Most species can be stored in the refrigerator for several days, however. Preparation It is not advisable to wash mushrooms, as this may remove s.ome of the flavor. For those species which do not need much cleaning, it is best to pid: them as cleanly as possible and scrape off any dirt with a knife, then wipe them with a damp cloth. If washing cannot be avoided (as in the case of the Horn of Plenty, and other species that grow in sand), this should be dOlle as quickly as possible, and above all do not leave mushrooms to soak in water. Drain them on a kitchen towel or kitchen paper. Cooking methods As regards the best way to cook them, opin ions are very divided. Some cooks simmer wild mushrooms for an hour or so, while olhers consider lhatthey should be cooked quickly over high heat. It is all a matter of taste, though it also depends on the texture of the mushroom itself. Fleshy species. such as Ceps and Chanterelles, can withstand loog cooking, those with thin, fragi le flesh, TIle next scene after a lruirfullungus foray In the forest is set in the kitchen. such as the Ink Caps, the Blusher and the Griseue should be quickly fried in very hot oil; if subjected to long, slow COOKing, they will turn into an unappetising mush. As a general rule, the first stage of cooking consists in making the mushrooms release the water they cO!ltain by heating them in a skillet or pan that is large enough to ensure even (ooking, simply to allow the water to evaporate. This operation does n01 require the addition of fal, but a tablespoon of oil could be used to prevent the mushrooms sticking to the pan. Mushrooms releaS<! varying quantities 01 liquid, depending on the species and on whether or not they have been washed. The Cep. for example, is a fleshy fungus which does not need to be washed, releases very little liquid. The S<!cond stage consists in ~ u t i n g mush- rooms over high heat in a mi xture of oil and butter. Some people used a strongly flavored oil, such as olive oil, and in france duck fat These Ceps have been driOO and stored in Mason jars. They will keep 101 several monlfls. is sometimes used. Another method of cook- irlg the mushrooms is to braise them in a covered pan. Gastronomy is not an exact science and it is up to the individual to discover the best ways to cook their favori te species of mush room. Now that wild mushrooms are becoming so popular on restaurant menus, and spedes once only to be found in the wild are now being cultivated, it is becom ing easier all the time to find recipes for cooking fungi. Perhaps the only rule is that they should not be cooked with any food, such as cheese, wIlien masks their subtle flavors. The reduction in price also makes it easier to experiment. Furthermore, those who are nervous about not washing speci- mens found in the wild will prefer the culti vated versions, wIlieh are always grown on a sterile substrate, and thus are free of con tamination. IDENTIFICATION KEY Spherical or globular mushroom, Not Globular sometimes dMloping into subterranean diverse forms .. Phallus-shaped .. v Q
Star-shaped ... .. - ... z I ..
- Subterranean Q Z " Fungi in the shape of cups, z antlers. or .. pustules '" ... - Clubshaped fungi, bfaoched.
- bum, fungi. neither viscous !lOr '" getalinous z " Vis(Ous Of gelatinous fUngus
Fungus spreading in a oust or fans-shaped fungus. I GASTEROMYCETES GASTEROMYCETES GASTEROMYCETES ASCOMYCETES ASCOMYCETES APHYLlOPHORALES PHRAGMOBASIDOMYCETES APHYLlOPHORALES 26 27 Puff-balls (fragile skin), Scleroderma (leathery skin) p. 356 to p. 361 Phallus p. 363 to p. 364 Geaster anthurus p. 354 to p. 355 p. 364 to p. 365 Truffles p. 56 to p. 57 Xylaria hypoxylon, Bisporella citrin a, Peziza spp. p. 34 to p. 45 Clavairia p. 99 to p. 105 Exidia, Auricularia, Tremella ... p. 60 to p. 62 Stereum, Trametes, Polypores ... p. 66 to p. 85 Fungus with pores in place 01 Central. diller- gills entiated stipe. ground grower. Lateral or absent stipe. .. growing on wood or O!l the '" I ground V 0 Gelatinous flesh ~ fungus with spines in place 01 .... '" gills - .... z ~ Non-gelatinous .. flesh ~ I ~ - 0 , '" :z: .... Fungi with a pitted or deeply - ;J: lobed cap - '" z Trumpet-or funnel-shaped ::> ~ fungus. underside smooth or (overed in de<urrent veins Mushroom with flesh separable from the cap and de<urrent i l l ~ BOLETALES APHYLLOPHORALES PHRAGMOBASIDIOMYCETES APHYLLOPHORALES ASCOMYCETES APHYLLOPHORALES BOLETALES 28 29 Boletus, Suillus, Xerocomus, Tylopilus p. 318 to p. 344 Polypores p. 80 to p. 85 Hydnum gelatinosum p.63 Hydnum p. 86 to p. 89 Helvella, Verpa, Morchella p. 46 to p. 55 Cantharellus, Craterellus p. 90 to p. 98 Gomphidius, Paxillus p. 345 to p. 348 Mushroom whose gills are Brittle stipe not separable from the lIesh - of the cap 0
Fibrous stipe Spores white or cream,
z gills the soame color - but sometimes yellow, z 0 orange, or violet. v - .. "" u Q
... "" - ... z I
'"
Spores pink, gills
- pinkish at maturity. Q "" '" ... Spores sepia brown or -
black, gills bla(kish at maturity - '" z :>
Spores ocher brown, IlIst or brown-violet, gills the same color at maturity RUSSULALES Non- separable TRICHOLOMATALES stipe BOLETALES Stipe AGARICALES separable ENTOLOMATALES AGARICALES CORTI NARIALES CORTI NARIALES 30 31 Russula (no milk), Lactarius (milky substance appears when damaged) p. 286 to p. 315 Hygrophorus, Pleurotus, Lentinus, Lentinellus, Clitocybe, Tricholoma, Lepista, Armillaria, Melanoleuca, Collybia, Marasmius, Mycena p. 108 to p. 177 Clitocybe nebularis, Pleurotus ostreatus, Clitocybe aurantiaca p. 349 to p. 351 Agaricus, Lepiota, Amanita p. 190 to p.229 Clitopilus, Entoloma, Pluteus (no ring or volva), Volvaria (volva but no ring) p. 232 to p. 239 Psathyrella, Coprinus p. 180 to p. 190 Paneolus p. 281 to p. 283 Cortinarius,Hebeloma, Inocybe, Pholiota, Stropharia, Hypholoma, Psilocybe, Agrocybe p. 242 to p. 283 --- --------------------" CORDYCEPS OPHIOGLOSSOIDES Club-shaped Cordyceps DESCRIPTION: H:l'/.-]'/, in (4-8 em). Shaped like a club with a $wollen, granulos!!! NECTRIA c/NNABARINA Scarlet Ncctria DESCRIPTION: 0:0.080.4 in (0.2-0.5 em). This fungus has two distinct forms. that of smooth, and blackish tip, which when mature is cov- ered with a whitish powder. HABITAT: de<kluous or coniferous woods in the fall. Fairly frequent but often passes unnoticed. SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS CordycfpS art aU fotmidable parasites. In some specirs, the develops in the bodies of insectS or their larvae, Cllusing them to die. The bright-red C",dJ'rtps mililllris kills flirs in this way. Club-shaped Cordyceps parasitizes a type of tl'1.lffie with a yeUow mycelium. The same family includes crop pests such as ergot of rye (Cla,,'u!,s I""I',/r(,,). pink pillows or cinnabar red, hard, granu!ose pustules. The two forms are frequently found together. HABITAT: on the dead branches of a ety of deciduous trees. Found all year round, but mainly in the fall. Very common. THE ASCOMYCETES XYLARfA HYPOXYLON Candle-snuff Fungus DESCRIPTION: H: '10-3 in (I-Scm). Fruiting bodies resemble little stag horns, almost cylindrical at first, then fl allened, black at Ihe base and white al the top. l ~ has a corky con- sistency. HABITAT: logs and the dead branches of deciduous trees. Found all year round, but mainly in wintel'. Very common. HYPOXYLON FRAGfFORME Strawberry Hypoxylon DESCRIPTION: O:Ir-'h in (0.5-1 em). Small granulose globule\ brick led at first thefl black- ening. Blackish-brown, rod- aceous flesh. HABITAT: on bark or dead branches of beedl t r ~ Dif- ferent stages may be PfI?SeI'lt at the same time. Found all year rOOM, but mainly in winter. Very common. USTULINA DEUSTA Burnt Uni lina DESCRIPTION: 0: '/.-4111 (210 em), Grayish when young. 1hef1 <level oping rnto black. ganulose. bnnle ~ 'f.., 10 '10 in (2 to 5 fTIIl) thd. HABITAT: on decomposing beech logs. Common. lives lor several years. The pale gray areas of growth appear in lale Spllng 01 wmmer, then bladen and per- SISt from OIl(> year to the next. SCLEROTINIA TUBEROSA, DUMONTINIA TUBEROSA Tuberous Sclcrotini a DESCRIPTION: H:l 'r-4 In (410 em), 0: '/,- ,'1. in (1-3 em), Receptacle at f i ~ deeply cup-shaped lhell mallow!!r, brown 01 tlazelnut. Stipe smooth ami narrow, brown, long but panly embed- ded in the soil, sinuous and attached to a black scleiohum. No charactefistic odcw HABITAT: damp woods. hedge!ows., and meadows aloogside wood ar.emones arid Ranunculaceae such as lesser celaOOmt'. Common. SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS This 1U1'lp5 anuhrs i ~ l f ru a Kit rotium to tht dead roots of lht host plant. It is a hard, bbck splltrial mass mruuring about 'I. in (1 em) and rtprt- nllling .. rt'SilaD! form of tht fungus. THE ASCOMYCETES BULGARIA INQUINANS Bachelor's Button DESCRIPTI ON: 0: '/.-1 '11 in (O.54 em). at first, then widening and be<oming slightly cup-shaped, the center become smooth and shiny with hluish high- lights. It (overed with a black dust (the black spores of the lungus) which stains SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS The 5olm1' species of tree is host to the TruncalI'd Bulgaria (Bulgaria rruNClulI), which is a dose relative of Jl.achelor But- ton but its spores do nOI stain the fin- gers. ASCOCORYNE SARCOIDES Fl eshy Ascocorync the fingers. The outer parI is brown, velvety and granulose. The lIesh is ocher-brown, elastic, and rubbery. HABITAT: grows in patches on bark or branches of oak, chestnut. and beech that have rffMl1y bet>n cut down. Fall and win- ter. Common. DESCRIPTION: 0:'/, '" in (0.5-1.5 em). The fruiting body is cup- or fun- nl'!-shaped with a flattl'ned or top, which becomes con- cave. Violet-pink or purple-red gl'latinous flesh, margin often lobed. St ipe absent or very short. HABITAT: in large, tight ly packed clumps on rotting dead wood, esPl'{iaHy bel'ch. but alw fir. Fall and winter. Common. NEOBULGARIA PURA Pale Bachelor's Button DESCRIPTION: 0: 'I .. , '{, in (14 em). Conical. fleshy, and almost translucent. The upper side is smooth with a slightly raised margin. The underside is smooth, beige or HABITAT: on the bark of branches of deciduous trees that have died re<enlly. espedaliy beech. Grows in light dumps. From summer through late fall. Fairly common. CHLOROCIBORIA AERUGINASCENS, CHLOROSPLENIUM AERUGINASCENS Blue.green wood Cup DESCRIPTION: 0: '/,'" in (0.51 em). A small, wide shallow cup with a wavy mar- gin, 0!1 a short stipe. The fungus is entirely blue-green in color, with a slightly paler exterior; very often the wood around it is stained blue-green. HABITAT: grows in colonies on dead wood with no bark (oak, hazelnut, beech). Found all year round. The fungus fruits quite rarely, but the blue-green mycelium forms large distinctive patches on tref! trunio::s or branches. It once used for THE ASCOMYCETES BISPORElLA CITRINA Yellow 8isporella DESCRIPTION: 0:0,04 " in (0.1-0.3 em). looks like a tiny. shallow (UP al first; la\er, the lOp becomes Bright sulfur yel- low in color, turning orange as il ages. HABITAT: in large on brandies Wipped of bark, espe<ially beech and hazel nut. Suml'llef through !.ate fall. Common. LEOTIA WBRICA Yellow Nail Fungus DESCRIPTION: H:l 't.-2'1, in (3-6 em), e:!I"" in (1-2 em). This fungus Is completely (OVefed in and is the shape of a nail. The edge of the cap IS inrolled, nregular, '\Offielimes de-pressed in the or turning fainl/y olive with age. Stipe finely granulos!. sometimes fluted, pale yel. low 10 ochef. Flesh and rubbery. TOXICITY Suspected of being poisonous. This limps (ould b<.' confused with a young specimen of the Tubular Chantcrdlt, which is similar in shapt and color. yellow, devoid ci o:b tnhasle. HABITAT: grOW Singly or in groups on moss or leaf litter In damp wood, Found in summer through fall. Fairly common, POTENTIAL CONFUSION .. CAN'11iAREll.US nJBAF1'ORAUS Chantcrelle EDIBLE HUMARIA HEMISPHAERICA Acorn Elf Cup DESCRIPTION: H: '/,'I. in (1 -1.5 em), 0: '/,. 11. in (1 -3 em). looks like an acorn (Up. and is sometimes half-buried in leaf liner. Remains semicircu- lar even when mature. The interior ollhe cup is smooth and shiny, bluish-white 10 gray-while. then pale o c h ~ Tht> exte1iof and margin are covered WIth thick, dense reddish Of brown hairs lNhich are dafter al the edge. The f ~ is pale and pef!>lSlem. HABITAT: grows on the ground. on (Ouing wood in cool. shady urodefgrowth. From !>Ummel through early fall. Quill' common. SCUTELLINIA SCUTELLATA Shieldshaped El f Cup DESCRIPTION: 0:0.2-'1. in (0.41 em). A fairly regularly shaped shallow cup willi OtJt a Sfipe. The inside is bright reddim- OIal'!)e and the outside beige and velvety The margin is covered in blackish-brown !lairs ',,."J.. in (110 2 mm) long. The cup is folded inward al first, then flattens out wilh age. The flesh is reddish, with flO particular odor or laste. HABITAT: in dense clumps on wood, some times on SOil riCh in humus; in very humid places. ohefl beside waler. from spI"ing Ilirough fal l. Common. THE ASCOMYCETES TARZETTA CAT/NUS, PUSTULAR/A CAT/NUS Crucible Elf Cup DESCRIPTION: 0:'1._2 in (2-5 em). Another elf cup that looks like an acorn cup, though in this one the edge is curlPd over until maturity. and when it opens it exhibits tiny rounded indentations on the margin. SPECIAL FEATURES This is rhe largest fungus in the genus Tar:tlliI. Another common species, the Cup-shaped Peziza (far-dla (ll,,,,/aris) i5 less than ',. in (2 em) in diameter. The interior surface is smooth and ochla- (faUS. The outer surface is paler. sometimes almost white, and covered with a very fine down. Short, thin stipe. usually buried in the substrate. Flesh thin and brittle. HABITAT: 00 bare ground in deciduous or coniferous woods and in gardens. Usually grows in groups. the specimens may be sep- arated or tightly packed together. Frui ts in summer. Fairly com moo. DESCRIPTION: H:2'lr 41_ ill (6-12 em), 0: 4-7 in (1018 em). Globular al first and half-buried. Ihe Crown Elf Cup Ihen opens al Ihe lOp wi lh a wide crownshaped aperture, wilh saw-loothed SARCOSCYPHA COCCINEA Scarlet El r Cup DESCRIPTION: 0:'/.2 ill (25 em). This cup with liS irregular margin is in placK. The mner surface IS bl"ight red. The outer surface is palei' and covered with a fif"le while down. Stipe /r'/. in (\2 cm) long, and the same color as the outer wrface. Thin, leathery. flesh; no particular tasle or odor, HABITAT: grows in large colooies 00 dead braMhes and twigs. sometimes halfhidden rn moss. often In hedgerows, on bramble or SARCOSPHAERA CRASSA Crown Elf Cup edges.. The interior is pinkishviolet, soon turning brown. Outer surface whitish. Whrtish flesh/. in (0.5 cm) thick and brittle; no particular odor or flavor. HABITAT: under beech or pine trees, espe<ially al the edge of woodland paths Of roods. Frurts in spring. Uncommon 10 fal/Iy common. TOXICITY Vtry poiSOIlOUS when r;tW, ptrhaps r,'tn dradly. Ediblc if thoroughly cookcd, but in or its toxiciry, it is not to try uling iI , C"CII cooked. blackthofll !Wigs. and in the undergrowth of dKiduous woods. Fruits from spring U'llough \0 winter. Fairly common. DESCRIPTION: 0: 1 .. 4 in (110 an). This Elf Cup has no Stipe The edge is imolled when young. f1auening oot wilen older and bKomlng wavy Ot" lobed. The inner sur- face is bright Ot"ange, and the outer surface is pale orange. and (Ollerro with a line down. The nesh is thin and friable. with no parucula. odor or taste HABITAT: on bare ground, dirt r o d ~ embankments and freshly turned earth. Found mainly on day soil. THE ASCOMYCETES Sometimes grows in tightly packed dumps. fall to early winter. Very common. EDIBILITY This is the only Elf Cup Ihal is edible raw. All the 1'CSt, \\-ith a couple of uccplions, r t poisonous r.lW and mIlS! bt; coolctd 10 bt; uttn. However, the Or.lngc Pecl Fungus il not particularly bSt)'. 11$ m.lin inltrdt lies in il$ brilli"nl color lhat looks good in salads and C\'fn in desserts. PEZ/ZA VESICULOSA Bladder Elf Cup DESCRIPTION: 13:1 '/,-4'/, in (4 12 em). Globulose al first, ohen compressed side- ways. It opem out into a wide cup with an inroDed, toothed edge. The smooth innef surface is ocher or fil'Nfl. Theft dll! often tiny bladders in the bouom of the cup, hence the name. The outer surface is the same calOf as Ihe inner, though often paler and finely Poisonous wIIm TlIW. Quite good to flit whm thoroughly cooked. PEZ/ZA SUCCOSA Juicy Elf Cup DESCRIPTION: 0:'1 .. 2 in (1 5 em). An inegular!Jiaped cup with an incurving margin. There is no Slipe. The inner !>Uriace is smooth, ocher Of hcl2elnut in color. The outer surfa<:e is paler, sometimes even cream-colored, lightly granuloS!! and pruioose. The flesh is wtlite and lough, exuding a while, milky liquid. The f\esh and milk tum yellow a few minutes alte. (ulling. HABITAT: under de<idoous trees, beside paths. on damp, clay Summer and lall, Failly common. granulose. The flesh is fragile. brmle arld whitish, without dfly spedal odor Of taste. HABITAT: on rich soil and burnt Qfound, old compost, and rotting straw. Grows is0- lated or In light from sp!'lng through fall. Fairly common. THE ASCOMYCETES PEZIZA BADIA Black E.l r Cup DESCRIPTION: 0: '/,-3 In (2-8 cm), This Elf Cup no and an irregular, wavy edge. The interiof is reddishbrown, then gleef1ish brown. The also reddishbrown and finely granulo5e. The is thin. brownish red, and contains a watery liquid, HABITAT: On bare soil, paths, in clearings and very damp places on acid OTIDEA ONOTICA DESCRIPTION: H:l ' ... -4 in (3-10 em). Shaped like the ear of a donkey or a hare. The inner surface is ocher or pinkishyellow. The outer surface is velvety, bright yellow or orange yellow. and acquires rustcolored or brown spots with age. Very short stipe covered in white down. Very thin, elastic flesh. HABITAT: In small groups under de<iduous Vet'S, or somet'mes conifers in late summer and fall. Fai rly common in places.
" HELVELLA ACETABULUM Cup-Shaped Srain Fungus DESCRIPTION: H: 1-'.-2'/. in (37 em). 0: I',,-2'/. in (3-7 em). The fungus is shaped like a chalice, with a broY.'nistHed intefior. The OIlier SUfface is paler and Slightly The Stipe is short. though il can be as Ioog as 2 in (5 em). 11 is thickly veined, and sometimes the veins ale ramif ied, right up to the cup. Flesh elas- tic then brittle; faint odor and mild navor. SPECIAL FEATIJRES Sometimu known as the VllItgOlr Brain Fungul (lit ROlNlnl art said 10 lIave u,rd il like a vinegar boldt. HELVELLA CRISP A Common Brain Fungus DESCRIPTION: H:l l.-41: in (3-12 em). 0: ,'/.-3/. in (38 em). This fungus considerably in size. The cap is very irregular. then but wIVed and curled. It is cream to pale ocher in color. Stipp !Mute and hollow, deeply funowed. Fie!.h elastic and thin; faint odcr. HABITAT: decidUOltS Of woods, especially borders, footpaths. dealings, and in meadows beside wood5. On calcareous Lale summer and fall. Fairly common. HABITAT: in groups in well.lit deciduous woods beside paths. on plains and moun- tains. Prefers non-acid sandy soil. found from spi"ing through early summer. Fairly common. THE ASCOMYCETES HELVELLA ELASTICA Elas tic Brain Fungus DESCRIPTION: H:2't,-4 in (6-10 emL 0:',.- ,'/, in (2-4 em). Undulating, saddle-shaped cap, often con- sisting of two lobes. cream !O pale ocher underside smooth and whitish. Stipe smooth, whitish, elongated and thickened at the base, often compressed and hollow, 1 '/, to 2 in (3 to 5 mm) in diameter. The elastic f l ~ has no odor or flavor. HABITAT: under dedduous Irees, on the TOXICITY PoisonoLl$ when r;lW. The Brain Fun- guses generaUy make poor cating, and Iheir Resh is clastic and lough. HELVELLA LACUNOSA Elfin Saddl e or Black Bra;n Fungus DESCRIPTION: H: l /.-4 in (3-10 em). Very variable in mape, looking very much like the Common Brain Fungus but with a gray-brown 10 blacI:. cap <onsisting of two or three lobes. The un6erside is pale gray. HABITAT: grows in the same places as the Common Brain Fungus, but may persist into the fall. Common and widespread through the temperate and (001 lones of both hemispheres. ground sometimes on rotten logs. Calcare- ous soil. Fall. Fairly common. GYROMITRA ESCULENTA False Morel DESCRI PTION: H:2-4'/, in (5-12 em), 0:2- 4in(5 IOcm). Irregular, heavily convoluted cap, looking l i ~ a brain, wider Ihan il is lall and reddish- brown in color. The shorl thick stem is swollen allhe base. whilish and ooUow.The Ihin white flesh has a rather fruity odor. POTENTIAL CONFUSION AfORCHELLA ESCULENTA MOld EDlIlLf PTYCHOVERPA BOIIEMICA Boheml.tll Veipol E01IILf THE ASCOMYCETES " " HAB ITAT: the false Morel is rarely lound at heights 01 less than 1,700 It (500 mI. It p p e r ~ from late March through May, and as late as June at high altitudes. It lives in coniferous woods. espe- cially well-lit ones, such as clear ings and beside paths; rarer under deciduous trees. Prefers cool, damp, rather acid soil. Com mon in eastern Europe. SPECIAL FEATURES There are other species of Cyromitra (False Morel) which are ran in Europc but more common in Nonh America. The Turban Brain Fungus (C)TO",;/r4 ;"fulll) is a large mountain species with a brownish-yeHow to reddishbrown cap whkh ran reach a height of 8 in (20 em). I! groW$ in the fan in coniferous or mixed woods. The cap consists of two or three IObt5, making it look more like a Brain Fungus. The Ciant False Mord (G)"rom;/r4 gig4S) is another large species that grows at high altitudes. The cap is reddish-bro .... n to dark brown and icss convoluted than that of the False Morel. It can measure 8 in (20 em) in diameter and gro\\'5 in late spring. TOXICITY Although the False Morel has long bten taten in many countries, especially those of eastern Europe, it can be deadly. lis toxicity is extremely variablc, however. Some people bave been poisoned who had uten the mwbroom for years without incident. Sometimes, the poison docs not manifest itself the first time the fungus is eaten, but only produces symptoms the next time;t is consumed, especially if this is soon ahefWilrd. Chil dren arc particularly wlnerable. When dried, the mwhroom is much less toxic, and may C,'cn Ix harmless. Caution is strongly advised, however. VERPA CONICA The Glove-Finger Morel DESCRIPTION: H:2-6 in (S- IS (m), eU-! ',. in (1-3 em), The cap is shaped a trun- cated (one, and is reminiscent of a thimble on a fingf!r. II is wrin- kled and coovoluled, sometimes slightly umbilic:ate at the top. The colOI' varies from hfGWni!.hodlef to reddish-brown. The stipe is cy1mdrKal, !oOOIl'times thickened at the base, II is short al first, then e\oo9ated. somellilleS exceeding 4 " in (12 em) in ler,gth, with a diame tfr of '/' in (1 em). I! is white, somelimM with a pinkish IlIlgt, and may have wavy lines of hairs iKross II at inlerval5. The interior is filled with a COllony fiber at first, later be<oming hollow. The flesh is soft and fragile with a laint odor and mild flavor. HABITAT: grows in tr<XJpS in In hedgefows and unOO bushes. wch as bla<ktholn and hawthorn and beneath wil low and ash. FiIYOfS sandy or gravely lime- stone. Fairly uncommon. Poisonous when raw, not particularly good to eat when cooked. THE ASCOMYCETES PTYCHOVERPA BOHEMICA Rohemian Verpa DESCRIPTION: H:2-8 in (5-20 em), 0: '/._2 in (2-5 em), Conical cap rounded at the top, entirely free (only the top of the cap is attached to the stipe), It consists of thick, longitudinal, fibs. folded into shallow, narrow, irregular honeycomb, The color is ocher to reddish brown. The stipe is short at first, then eKlending, sometimes to more than 8 in (20 on}, "..;m a cDneter d. III jess than >Um mra/ked ra "r-/ "'1' __ 'I. in (2 ern), It is fragile and cylin drical, stuffed with conony fibers at first, then hollow. It is whit!', tinted with ocher In places and may have bands of whitish down encircling it. The flesh is thin and fragile with a slight odor, that becomes HABITAT: in groups in groves 01 ash, hazelnut or poplar, !'spedally at mid-moun- tain height, and often alongside Morel!>. Grows from mid-March 10 early May. Uncommon 10 common. MITROPHORA SEMILIBERA Miniature Morel DESCRIPTION: H;26 in (5-15 em), 0; '/,... 1'/. in (1 -) cm). Cap conical and pointed, rather ~ a l l (II, to <I em) tall. The lower third or half of the cap is not attached to the stem. It i5 pit- ted with deep ocher-bl"OWIl pockets, separated by thin, darker walls which b l a c ~ with age. The hollow, cylindri- cal stem expands slightly undef the cap. The white color ~ lIOOletimes tinted w!lh pale ochef. 1\ is finely grained and often funowed at the top, The flesh is hagile, slightly elastic, with a faint odor and mild taste, HABITAT: glows in spring hom late Malch through May in (001, damp groves of elm, poplar, aldel and hombedm, often among lessef Celandine, 00 clay and cakafeous soils.. EDIBILITY /TOXICITY Poisonous when nw, but good to rat when (oohd. Only the cap tastes as good as a Mord, according to SlIme cxpcns. Because it is so small you need a lot of them to mah a meal. Miniature Morels should ~ eatcn right ann picking, al it IkteriorattS quidly. THE ASCOMYCETES MORCHELLA ELATA Tall Morel DESCRIPTI ON: H:2'I.-5 in (7-1] em), 0: 1'f.2 in (3-5 em), Conical cap. aboot twice as lall as i\ is wide. The honeycombing is more or less vertical. the cross-ribs being thinner than the vertical ones. The cap is browni5h-yel low to dark brown. Stem is short and while. wilh a small ofrolar depression between the stipe and tile cap. HABITAT: coniferous 'M)()(\s and mixed mainly in the mountains. March and Apfil, but sometimes as early as from mi<HebfUary, Fairly uncommon. __ illl1ft "IA-
SPFClAL FEATIJRES This Morel VoiIrie!l in shajH' on SlXciu of ute under ..... bich it grows. and othtr tnvironmental factors. Tnt Ribbed Morel {.lIorcltt/l" (MIllIa) grows mort frequently on detritUS and gubage hups. The ribs afe more veni cal with crossribs at right angles to them. It is often consiclered a men variery of (/)fr;el!. MORCHELLA ESCULENTA Morel DESCRIPTION: The stipe and the cap are hollow and form a continuous cavity. SPECIAL FEATURES Thi5 fungus vants widtly in $hapt'. mycologislli dillid(d it into KVtnl ",,-ntb" or , .. but the while 51em and honeycomlKd cap arc Vtry distiMlivf. HABITAT: Very varied. Damp, cool decidu- ous woods. especially under aih, but also under poplar. willow and hazelnut. Also in hedgerows of these trees, in neglected orchards. old bum! patche. suub, dis- turbed wiL April and May. until late June at high altitude. Fairly common, found in tem- perate zones throughout the WOI'Id. THE ASCOMYCETES .. GYROAlITRA ESCULENTA False Morel DEADLY '"Oft (Jf' 1m gllli'"/11St "I' EDIBILITY /TOXICITY Poisonous when raw, but delicious when cooked. Mords are a valuable and expensive foodstuff, sold at gourmet foodstorcs. Fresh specimens are from the U.S. or imported &om Europe and Turkey; dried Morels are imported from southeast Asia. /"'" .. ,/I .. " "'" SPECIAL FEATURES The Pale or Round Morel (ll/orcbil/n rolm,dll) may grow larger. The cap is rounded, sometimes wider than it is tall. The honey tombing is also more rountkd, with narrower ribs. The cap is straw colored or pale ocher, and may be tinged with 0151 color on the ribs. The stipe is thicker and shorter but;t has almOSt the SlIme habitat as the Common Morel. TUBER MELANOSPORUM Black Truffl e, Perigord Truffl e DESCRIPTION: 0: 1 '/.-]'/, in (3-8 em). Rounded, often irregu- lar, lumpy shape, black covered with flattened pyramid-IDaped warts. The flesh is firm and pale al first, then turning violet- black and heavily marbled with white veining which red- dens when exposed to the air. The odor and taste are powerful and fragrant. HABITAT: grows underground a few inches below the surface, and may sometimes 5wion of rm{fl, " break through. Found in clearings in wooded areas, mainly under evergreen oaks on well-drained, caicarel)Us soil. Found in southern France. Spain, Italy, and Portugal. Ripens from November through March, Rare, and has suffered from changes in the environment. Cul tivated in evergreen oak or h<lzelnut plantations. EDIBILITY The Black Truffle is famous throughout the world for;1:$ delicious flavor. No other mushroom has such prestige or can match its p<lwcrful odor. The prices m ~ t h the g r ~ t demand and sho" sup- ply, making il one of the most expensive foods in the world. THE ASCOMYCETES TUBER UNCINATUM Burgundy Truffle DESCRIPTION: 0: )/.3/, in (28 em). The BurgundyTruffle is closely relolNl to the Black or Perigord Truffle, but its warts ale larger and the flesh is brown, also veined with white. It has a strong odor but not as aromatic as that of the Black Truffle and smells a little like ether. SPECIAL FEATURES Ahhough Burgundy Truffie is not particularly demanding as to tcmJX'ra- ture, it is mon: sensitive to rainfaU. In order to Bourish, it needs to have plenty of rain in July and August. HABITAT: glom underground in woods of oak, hazelnut, beech, hornbeam, birch and pine. 1\ is more of a wood- land variety than the Black Truffle, growing on lime- stone soil, matur- ing from D<:tober through January. 1\ is probably the most widely dis- tributed and com- monl'St truffle in continental Europe. EDIBILITY Very good to tat. The slightly odor disappears during cooking. It a bettcr flavor than the Summer Trume, though il has a lower Slatus. It fetches high prictS, nevertheless, cOSling around S200 a kilogram (211 Ib). There are plans to grow Ihis trume in areas which are too cold for the Black T rume. EXIDIA GLANDULOSA Wit ches' Butter DESCRIPTION: 0:'1.-2 in (2-5 em). A soh, black gelatinolls mass. irregular, sometimes lobed and !.Oflletimes globulose, often folded and convoluted, growing alone or in groups of two or three attached to each other. Sometimes $el't!ral individual frui ting bodies mass togethef. The under- SPECIAL FEATURES There is a morc rounded form, &idjl/ ,rllllralll, which is extremely common, especially on oak branches and twigs. AURICULARIA MESENTERICA Gray Brain Fungus DESCRIPTION: 0: up to 6 in (15 em). This crust-like fungus sometimes grows in a ring of fruiting bodies. It is '10 to ',. in (OJ to 0.5 em) thick. The upper side is grayish with (Ol)(eolri( zones, some (overed in gray hairs. others folded and darker, The under SPFCIAL FEATURES like the jelly funguses, thc brain and ear funguses arc able \0 dry out and shrivrl during dry spells, When rhey reabsorb warer, rhey sweU up again ro r('$ume rheir normal shape. covered with small conical papillae. Grayish flesh. odorle!.S and HABITAT: on dead logs and Ilfan<hes of de<iduous Present all year round, but especially in winter. Common. side is gelatinous and cOflvoluted; it is gray violet to purplishbrown in color. Flesh is leathery and gelatinous. HABITAT: on the dead wood of de<iduous trees. especially ash. Present al l year round, but especially in winter, Common. THE PHRAGMOBASIDIOMYCETES AURICULARIA AURICULA JUDAE Jew's Ear DESCRIPTION: 0:1 '/,. 4 in (4-10 em). (up-shaped, no stipe, irregular Of in the !.hape of an ear. Interior surface is reddish- brown, al fnt, foldirlg like the inside of an ear. The outer surface is velvety, reddishbrown, darl::.enlllg WIth age, grayish- violet or grayish-olive. The flesh is gelatinous or elastic, almost translucent. coriaceous and shriveled when dry. No particular flavor or odor HABITAT: On the dead branches of de(idu- ous trees, elder, sometJmes on other de<iduous trees. such as the walnut, and on the willow in damp pla<es. such as SPECIAL FEATURES This is ""u-CIT, the "Ooud Eilr" ' which the Chintw have Men uring for em- IUrits, mainJy in its dried form, is an ingrtdicnr in many prtp.lnltions or as a thickener for S<lU(ts. ChincH medicine also claims therapeutic properties for this fungus. In order [0 met'l the demand for il among oriental popl.llalioM, the Ear is cultivated in Chil\.ill and c\sf:v.-htrc in SOl,lthcut on logs of wood or, more r(untly, on ,lrtifici,ll SUbSlf,ltn. Most Europuns rq<Ect this fungus fllr nUng, u thty 6nd it 100 insipid. beside wJde rivers. Grows in groops aligned vertically or horizontally on branches. Pre- sent all round. espedally winter and spring. Common to fairly uncommon, depending on climatIC zooe. TREMELLA MESENTERICA Yellow Brai n Fungus DESCRIPTION: 0: 1 '/ ... 3'1. in (3-8 em). Convoluted ITIiISS shaped like 11 txain, flaccid and gelatinous, oembling to the slightest touch. Generally sulfur yellow, but some speomens may be pale yellow Of even white. The fungus be<omes orange. tough, and brittle upon drying out. HABITAT: on the dead txanches of decidu- ous uees that Mve fallen on the gound. All year round. Common. TREMELLODENDRON PALL/DUM Pale Coral Fungus DESCRIPTION: H: l '1.-4 in (3-10 em), 0:2-6 in (5-15 em), lool:s like a branching {Of ai, with white or whitish vellical branches. FIe>h gelaliflOus but tough. HABITAT: grOW on the ground in the deciduous or mixed forests of North Amefica. Summer and fall. THE PHRAGMOBASIDIOMYCETES PSEUDOHYDNUM GELATINDSUM Jelly Tongue DESCRIPTION: H:l 'I.l'h in (36 em), 0: 1 '/.-3',. in (38 em). Spatulate or semicircular, very soft, gelati nous, and wobbly. Upper surface velvety, dirty white, gray blue, turning brownish with age, and almost translucent. Urlderside covered in soft, gelatinous projec- tions like blunt spines, white with bluish reflections. Stipe excenuic, very short, and SOO'letimes CALOCERA VISCOSA Yellow Stagshom Fungus DESCRIPTION: H: 1". -4 in (310 em). The fungus is shaped like tiny stag's antlers or coral, ramified and viscid. the ramifica tions end in a point. The color is bright, golden to orange yellow, be<oming darker as the fungus dries out. The flesh is rubbery. SPECIAL FEATURES The siagshom funguses arc erect, some times branched fungi with tapering tops, reminisctlll of the Clavaria. Their consistency may be gelatinous and tlastic or leathery. EDIBILITY Averagt. Somrtimes lainltd ... ilh a sUghl laste of resin. Can be uten raw. absent. The gelatinous fiesh is almost translucent. HABITAT: on rotting conifer stumps, often pine, sometimes buried in the ground. Fall and early wimer. Fairly fre quem, especially in the mountains. Does not grow outside the temperate lOnes. HABITAT: firmly attached to the stumps and branches of the rotting wood of vari ous species 01 (onifer by a wrt of whitish "root: All Yl!af round, but especially in late fall and early winter. Very (ommon. SERPULA LACRYMANS Dry Rot DESCRIPTION: 0:up to 20 in (50 em). The fungus takes a variety of forms depend- ing on the stage of its developmenl.The SUI- face is \If!!vety, olivaceous or illS! brown, swollen and alveolate; the margin is velvety and whil e. The underside is covered with dirty yellow or brownish irregularly shaped, polygonal or labyrinthine pores, which release droplets 01 water at the edges (hence the epithet "'acrymans). It has a pleasant ~ e l l wt1en fresh, but becomes unpleasant as it (t9es, HABITAT: under floorboards and carpets, in the walls. cupboards, cellars and damp unaired places. All year round. SPECIAL FEATURES This is the fearsome destroyer of older buildings, whith eats ilWily at the wood work in damp constru(rions, especially those that arc airlcss or uninhabited. Dry Rot requires a fairly damp almo- sphcn for if fO fake hold. It subse- quently spreads by decomposing the wood and mortar, using the water in the materials and transporting it to the dry, inedible parts. It un thus thrive even in places which arc not partio,]arly damp, providing they remain airless ~ n .. ndis- turbed. It is the scourge of stately homes and mansions. THE APHYLLOPHORALES SOI/ZOPHYUUM COMMUNE Common Schizophyllum DESCRIPTION: 0:'1.-2 in (2-5 em), A tiny fan-shapM OJ kidney-shaped fungus.. from to 'I. in (2 1a 4 mm) thick, and a very sinuous 01 lobed edge. The uppe! wrfact is whitish 10 grayish-beige and woolly. The underside has darK pink gitls. radiating from a central point where it is aHache<! 10 the !.Ubsl rate. These unusual gills afe joined togedlef In pairs and seem 10 be splil lengthwise The flesh has a faint odor ,mel the flavor is mild. PHLEBIA RADIATA Many-capped Phlebia DESCRIPTION: multiple frui ting bodies from 2 to 8 in (S to 20 em) in diamelef. Ineguiar cwange CIlJ51 with darker, even viC)- let. (enter, very veined and swollen, falde<! with a thick, fr inged margin. The underside HABITAT: the dead wood 01 any raref on conrfefs. All year round. Com- mon from temperate regions to the equator. is pleated with radiating Soh gelati- nous flesh in young becoming leathe!y in the dry slale. HABITAT: on slumps or of de<id uous !lees (mainly birch and bee<h) more rarely on conifers. All year rOOM. but less frequent in summer. SPFCIAl FEATURES T mnbling ReI: tlltnlliln -hsJ, which is., rommoa, is \'tf)' ht",iyfokied on the folds rtKmbinggills. lt is soh and gelatinous and dt\Idops on the wne wood as the Phkbia. HYMENOCHAETE TABACINA Tobacco Brown Hymcnochactc DESCRIPTION: 0:4- 16 in (10-40 em). A fungus that forms a leathery Clust on wooo, with small patches at first which spread and merge to form a large sheet. Velvety, tobacco or rust-brown surface, paler when the weather is dry. The sinu ous margin is golden yellow then orange, IUlning brown with age. leathery flesh. HABITAT: on the dead wood of decidu ous trees, mostly willows and hazel. whether standing or having fallen to the ground. Often localized at the edge of woods or in hedgerows. Present all year round. (ammon in temperate zones. SPECIAL FEATURES Mougeo!'. Hymrnochaete de (II)'MtlUK/UWt M4Iugr4lIii}, which is widely distributed throughout the world is usy to recognize dut to its bright red tolor. It grows on dud branchu of fir Ireu. 1I)'",uIIII(II fubigiN4I$1I is a common speciu which grows on the trunks of old oak chestnut trtu. It forms little l uptrim- posed and caps of i Inth cry con,islcncy, which art vtlvcty in young . petimens. The edge of the caps is reddish-brnwn, btcoming duktr with age. THE APHYLLOPHORALES CHONOROSTEREUM PURPUREUM Silverleaf Fungus DESCRIPTI ON: 0:'1..2 in (0.55 em), This funglJS may foml a crust on wood or be attached to it at one side, leaving the edges of its cap free and undulatlng.The upper !>tI'face is white to reddish, hairy and with various parallel bands of colaf WIth a paler edge. The undefskle is smooth and slightly undulating. It is lilac-mlored, turning brown- ish-violet with age. The flesh is thin, gelati- I'IOIJS at first, then cOfiaceous.l t has no par- ticular odor, and a mild fIavoI. HABI TAT: the individual fungi grow in large patches, one on top of the other. sometimes welded together, on the brandles or trunks of lumber, mainly dec.iduoos trees. Present all )'f!ar round. Very common. SPE( tAL FEATURES The Silver-tuf fwlgus INIY aJso ~ r ; l sirize living but weakened !fees. It CilUS4:S SilvcrlufDisusf in fruit trees. STEREUM HIRSUTUM Hairy S!en:um DESCRIPTION: 0: '/.4 in (2-10 em). Multiple imbfi<ated Of superimposed caps. barely 10/ ... in (lor 2 mm) thick, with an undulating or lobed margin. upper surface. colored in parallel yeHow, orange, Of reddish stripes which are much darker al the point where the fungus is attached to the wbsuclle. Undefside smooth and orange. (Ofiaceous. HABITAT: in dense colonies on dead or felled de<iduous trees, from to large STEREUM RUGOSUM Rough Sicreurn DESCRIPTION: 13: ',.4 in (1-10 em), Forms a ems! '/" to 'I ... in (1 to 2 mm) thid::, attached 10 wood on the upper SlJiace, with a margin that is somelimes fref!. Upper SUI ' face (see below) grayish wilh a white edge. white through ocher, smooth or bumpy, turning blood red when rubbed. The flesh is coriaceous, bf.:mches, sometimes on pinewood. Present all year round. Very common. pale ocher in fresh young spe<imens. turn- ing darker, and be<oming tough and bfinle during dry spells. HABITAT: on the dead t.anches and trunks of dedduoos trees. especially hazel and birch. Pr!Senl all year round. Very (ommon. THE APHYLLOPHORALES COLTRICIA PERENNIS r ersinen! Coltricia DESCRIPTION: 0:'/d'l. in (2-8 em). f unnelshaped cap wilh thm, often undu- lating margin, 01 den- tale. Several caps may be welded al the edges. The underside is velvety, covered in cinnamon or rust-colored concentric circles. The tiny pores on the underside of the cap are yellowish-white al lim, then becoming coarser and wming brown, except al Ihe edge, which slays while, as there are no pores there. Shoft, thick, (entral Stipe ('1.-2 in _ '".',. in (lS em x 0.]-0.7 em)), wider at the base, velvety, paler al first, then blackening. Flesh, rust brown, Ihin and coriaceous. HABITAT; grows on Ihe ground in small groups. usually under conifers, in dearings Of buml, ground on sandy soil. I'!rsists all year lOund, for sevtral years on end. Common. SPECIAL FEATIJRFS fungi form a crust on wood art said 10 be ThOSl' to the gro .. ing mcdhull on onc $UK ud grow ooc 00 top of the ntbn- said 10 be dimidute. Some, such;J.S tht Rough Sicreum (SltrtUm rJlg<1fum), maY'PJIC,r in cithu of these forms. PHAEOLUS SCHWEINITZII Schwcinia.'s Polypore DESCRIPTlON: @:6 12 in (15-]0 em), Round Of lan-shaped fungi, ohen imbri- cated Of welded together. imprisoning twigs Of plants within their growth. Upper surface hairy Of downy, sulfur yellow with concen triC cirdes of ochef. orange, or cinnamon, tuming brown from the center. The margin stays yellow for a long time. The underOOe is labyrinthine, yellowish-green at first, turn- ing reddish, and browning to the touch. The stipe is more or 155 developed. short and thick. Brown, tender, and fibrous flesh, with a slightly biner flavor, HA8ITAT: 00 the ground, growing in sym- biosis (mycol'lhiza) with the roolS of living Of dead cOillfers. pille, spruce, and larch. From early summer through late fall. Urt(ommoo but widespread and 100md In many cDuntlies in thl' temperate lone, THE APHYllOPHORAlES HAPALOPILUS RUTILANS, PHAEOLUS RUTILANS Reddening HapaJopilus DESCRIPTION: H:'/,- l 'I, in (14 em), 0:2-4-/, in em), Fan-sl\apPd or kidnPy-shaped foogus. flXl'd 10 the substrate CM'I' a large area, isolated 01 in groups. specimens s0me- time together. The side is of a uniform color, yel Iowher ullough dnnamon, 'o'!M!ty al fJS\, then r.mooth. The underside is russel and COYefed in round, polygonal, Of eIcln9aled porK. Flesh soft ard spongy then corky, ocher or rilnamon-<Olored. HABITAT: dead braoches of de<:idliOus oak, beech, birch, chestnut. as well as on ((lf1ifefS such as fir. Spring through fall. Common, PIPTOPORUS BETULINUS, UNGULINA BETULINA Birch Polyport DESCRIPTION: 0:4-10 in (102S em). Roood 01 kidney-shaped cap. 'I. to 2'" in (2 to 6 em) thick, stifle absenL attached to the sub5uale by a sweHing. The upper surface is cof- fee-c:olored, somellfnes matte, smooth, or vetvety, cfiKking with age. The margin is inrolled forming a ridge on Ihe pure white underside. 'Ntlich is covered with rounded pores that ale barely visible. The flesh is white, soft and spongy. then {Ofky. Ediblt only in tht rollng state, and Dot very good to eat. SPE.ClAL FEATURE.S This fungus has been put to various uses, for example, to sharptn the cut- !hroat raZOR once used by ba"wn. HABITAT: 00 the branches afld trunks of living Of dead birch trees. Annual but may persist for years. commOfl. 8JERKANDERA ADUSTA, POLYPORUS ADUSTUS, LEPTDPORUS ADUSTUS Burnl Polypore DESCRIPTI ON: 0: 11,.4 in (4-10cm)_ Tllls fungus grows in tletS or imbricated dumps, in lan-shaped specimens 01 in a Vf!ry thin layer only ',. in (6 mm) thid:. at the maximum). The upper side is gray-brown and veiwty with a margin that is white at bIadrelirg with age. The undefside is cindef gray, then turning darker gray, with tiny pores. The flesh is soft and elastic, then hard. whitish. and clearly sepa- rated from the pale gray lUbes by a black. line ('>t'E'f1 irl transverse sec- tiOll); fungal odor and slightly acid taste HABITAT: on slUmps or on the dead or living trunks of deciduous trees, especially beedl, lT10Ie rarely on conifffS. Present all year fOund, especially summer and fall. Very common. DAEDALEDPSIS CONFRAGOSA, TRAMETES RU8ESCENS Blushing Bracket DESCRIPTtON: OJ'I.-6 in (8-1 em). Kidney-shaped cap, no thkker than 2 in and with a thin margin. Upper surface reddish, decorated with darker concentric cir- des and sprinkled with little brown wans. Pores are dirty white, rounded and 01 slrghtly elongated, 01 lormlng a maze. They redden when tOt.Khed, turning darker red with age. HABITAT: 011 the dead and liv- ing braoches of deci<Iuous trees. and in damp places. Grows mainly on willow and e\def, but also on popular, birch and hazel_ Present all year round. Very common, rare at higher al\lludes. THE APHYLLOPHORALES TRAMETES GIBBOSA Bulbous Polypore DESCRIPTION: H: ".2 in (25 em). 0: 3",-8 in (8-20 em). Fan-shaped, Upper surface vel vety, swollen at the point 01 fixation, whi te or cream, but very ohen greenish due to the growth of microscopic algal' on the surface of the cap. There are it few concentric bands of color on the margin. The underside is creamy white, wilh large. elongated pores which may even take the form of short gills near the point of fixation. Flesh white and corky. HABITAT: singl(> Of in tiered groups on branches and trunks of living or dead deCiduous trees. Present all year round, and may persist for one or two years. Very (ommon in the north, rarer in southern regions. SPECIAL FEATIJRES This fungus an grow 10 an imprcssi,'c sizt, and is mort 3 h (\ m) in diameler! TRAMETES VERSICOLOR, CORIOLUS VERSICOLOR Many.zoned rolyporc DESCRIPTION: 0:11,2 in (410 em). fanshaped caps. tiered and bonded together. very thin with a very undu lating margin. The range of colors i n l u d ~ while. gray. beige. black.. blue gray. and russel. These are aflangM in parallel bands, but the mal' gin is always pale!. belllg white 01 pall' Yf:l1ow. Velvety patches alternate with smooth ones. The minute pores are white at lirst. lurniJ'lg Yf:11ow with age. SI'FCIAI FF.ATURES The fungus is used in Chinese medicine is a Il'medy "gaim;! cancer of the Uver "nd (ena;n Iyptl of jaundice. In the W"t it is used as a decorative elemeot in Howerarranging and on hats. P",1llk1 hllNl$ ~ \'/lnoors {DIers IlR dillllllll'lS litIS {ltttgJIS 10 THE APHYLLOPHORALES TRAMETES HIRSUTA Hairy Tramctc DESCRIPTION: 0:2-41, in (5-12 em), Fan-shaped fuJ'lQus when growing on an upright medium, rosette-shaped when !pawing on a hofizomal medium. Superiof LENZITE5 BETUL/NA Birch lenl!i te DESCRIPTION: Iarge:l-4 in (5-10 em). Thin ('f, in (2 em) maximum), cap. ohen imbricated. Upper surface hirsute and covered in while, gray, or ocheI concentric paraliel bands, often colonized by algae which give it a greenish color. Thefe are pale gray or ocher crowded gills on the undefside. some 01 which are faked. The flesh ii pale. coria- CKJUS, eIastJC. ex 'O<ky. HABITAT: on vari- ous living or dead face decorated with paraliel bands of white, cream, or orange and with Ioog. sldf hairs. Underside vAli!e, turning gray, with very small poi'ts. Flesh white and faint odor and flavor. HABITAT: on dedduous trees. All year round. Fauly common in many countries. SPF.CIAl FEATURFS In T!<Imtta thm is no Kp- amion bMI.'ft'n flesh and rulwt, tuba boIlowed out of 1M IIesb. deciduous lreer--not confined 10 birch-and felled Iog5. in cool places. All )'f'ilr round. Quilt common and fo.n:I in many countries. FOMES FOMENTARIUS Hoof Fungus; TInder Fungus DESCRIPTI ON: H:1'I,.8 in (420 em). 0:4-16 in (1040 an). The upper surface is odJef Of rl!ddiVlbrown, SPECIAL FEATIJRES This fungus probably played an impor. ranI role in the Life of prehistoric II1<In,u it wu ctrtainly of pre:- Krving and transporting Iire,sinct it bunu very slowly. FISTULfNA HEPATICA Beefsteak Fungus DESCRIPTI ON: 0:4-10 in em). The fungus is elongated like a tongue Of semi-circular, It sometimes has it short Slipe by whidl it is anached to the wood. The upper surface is brick red, 5l1cky, and densely covered with little papillae. The pores 0f11he underside are cream 031 first, then reddish-pink, staining darker red when lOiKhed. The fiesh is soh and spongy. red with pal{'f patches, and oozing a red juice when CUI. The lUbes are 1"101 bonded logelhef and are easily separable. Acidic taste HABITAT: atlhe base of living oaks Of chestnut!.. Late summer and turning gray with semi.orculaf stripes Of folds. The l.I'IdeIside is aeam to gray-brown with tiny poI'e5 whICh darkM .....tlen toudled. The red dish-bmwn flesh is as hard .3$ wood. HABITAT: on the trunks of living Of dead deciduous beech and birch. All year round, Fairly common. fall. Common in certain places and found in many countries in the temperate lOfIE!. THE APHYLLOPHORALES ..1L " GANODERMA APLANATUM. G. LlPS/ENSE Ani 51's Fungus DESCRlPTlON: 0:4-16 in (10-40 an). The fungus fan-shaped Of semi-cifcular and is allached to the substrate ovt'f a large area on one II is qui ll' thin ('I. to )'/. in (210 8 em)). The upper surface is knobbly. and furrowed, ocher- brown or cinnamon wnh a very thin. white margin. WIlen the spores alt! e,e<ted, the sur- face is covered with a powdery. ocher layer. The ul'ldefside is ....nitI', turning russel, and browning 10 the louch. 1m! flesh is corky. brown with some white streaks. GANODERMA We/DUM la<:quered Bracket DESCRIPTION: 212 in (S-JO em), 0:2-8 in (S-lO em). Circular or kidney-shaped cap. Upper sur- face reddish-brown, knobbly. and hard with a brilliant glaze. Margin yellow-Ofange in young ij)edmens. Undefside white. turning SPECIAL FEATURES Th( fungus is highly pnz(d in ChinH( medicint, and is 10 (urt a n ... mbtr of infe<tions and iUnesSCll . HABITAT: on S!lImps and dead or living tree trunts of decidoous [lees Of ffiOfl' rarely on conifers. Persists for Com- mon and found in many countries. brown. Shiny Stipe lal(!fal or excentric, vertical, fai rly twisted. and the same coo or darter than the cap. Flesh elastic but coria ceoos. Not edible. HABITAT: on W'TlpS and dead trunks of decidUOltS trees, someumes on buried roots. Summ(!f and fall. Uncommon. TRICHAPTUM ABIETINUM, HIRSCHIOPORUS ABIETINUS Fir Bracket Fungus DESCRIPTION: 0:'"...1 '/" in (13 em). flanish bladr.et fungi WIth imbri- cated on bonded caps, often in fO'M. The Uppef surface is gray- brown, hairy, sometimes green- ish due to the growth of and violet or purple on the margin. The under- side has small, violet, rOUl'lded, or angular pores of I.II'IeVeO size, in a labyrinthine paltern, which 1001 brCJMl WIth age. flesh thin and coriaceous. HABITAT: on the !Junks of dead or felled sometimes on living trees. Grows from sea level 10 the tree line, Present all year round. Common in temperate zones.. POLYPORUS LEPTOCEPHALUS, P. VARIUS Vari able Bracket Fungus DESCRIPTION: H: l '/.-2'1. in (]7 em), 0: 24 in (510 em), Irregular, circular, or fan-shaped bracket, sometimes lobed, OJ wi th a sinuous mar- gin,hollow at Ihe stipe end, yellow ocher or reddish, with fine, darker radial stria- tions. Underside white then browning, lubes mOle or less decurrl'nl, vl'ry small porl'S. ExCl'ntric or cl'ntral stlPI', tapering at the typically black base. Whitish or yellowish fll'sh; pll'asant odor and mild flavor. HABI TAT: on dead wood and stumps of dl'Ciduous Irees. soml'timl'S on livinglretS. From spling 10 latl' fall. Common and found all OVl'r the tl'mperate lonl'S. THE APHYLLOPHORALES POLYPORUS SQUAMOSUS. MELANOPUS SQUAMOSUS Dryad's Saddle DESCRIPTION: H:24 in (S 10 cm), 0:4-20 in (10-50 cm). Kidney-shaped or circular cap, straw to ocher in color, covered with large reddish or bfown scales. Underside whitish, with decurrent tubes and large pores, from 'm. to '/0 in (1 to 3 mm). Very short, thick stipe (up to 3'/. in (8 em) long and 2 in (5 cm) wide). lateral or excentric, rarely (entral, white except al the base, where it is black. Firm white flesh. Flavor and odor of flour. HABITAT: grows in tiers on stumps or at the base of the trunks of deciduous trees, such as willow, poplar, walnut, and maple, in welHi t woods, parks. roadsides, and beside Spring through fall. Fairly common. POLYPORUS DURUS. P. BAD/uS. P. PICIPES Bay Polypore DESCRIPTI ON: resembles P. lepto- cephalus. but larger. The surface of the cap is very shiny and pale at first, later becoming dark brown, with a paler border. HABITAT: on dead wood and deciduous treestumps, often in groups of two or three. Spring through fall. a i ~ y common. DESCRIPTION: 0:2-16 in (10- 40 em). Cap forming voluminous, large, thin, fan- shaped tufts, with a sinuous, lobed margin. Surface rough, ocher, reddish or dark brown. Pores whitish, to the touch and on maturity. Stipes bonded together at tilt! base into a single point of allachmentlO tilt! substrate. flesh soon be<omes coriacoous, white, turning pink then black wllt!n cut. Strongly fungal but pleasant odor and slightly add flavor. HABITAT: on stumps or at the of de<iduous trees. late summer through early fall. Fairly common. SPECIAL FEATURES Stlme dumps of proportions. They may weigh dOlen pounds and In up 10 40 in (I m) in diameter. FOMITOPSIS PINICOLA, UNGULINA MARGINATA Marginate Polyporc DESCRIPTION: H;I '/, 4 in {3 10 em), 0:4 16 in (1040 em). Fan-shaped lungus without a stipe. The upper surface has a resinous crust of palf!r yellow turning reddish brown, and finally grayblacK. ThiCK. yelloworange margin. Underside whit ish or cream, secreting large drops of color less liquid a\ the margin while the fungus is growing. HABITAT: mainly on Slumps and logs of dead or living conifers. Present all year round, perennial. Common in places and in many countries. THE APHYLLOPHORALES INONOTUS HISP/OUS Shaggy Polyporc DESCRIPTION: 0:3/.-12 in (8-30 em). Fan-shapM cap. up to 4 in (10 em) thick at the base. Grows singly or in tufts. Cap red- dish, turning brown outward from the point of attachment. The surface is thickly (overed with stiff hairs. The pores are orange-red, then brown. The flesh is wft at first and yel- low then COlldceous and rust-colored. Pleas- ant odor and mild flavor. HABITAT: on living deciduous tre1!s, where they have been damaged, or on old trees. including apple, pear, aspen, and mountain- ash. Summer through fall; it disappears when the weather turns cold, but reappears annually. Fairly common and widespread. SCHIZOPORA PARADOXA, IRPEX PARADOXA, PORIA VERSIPORA DESCRIPTION: l:2-12 in (S3Dan). thick- ness: ',,'/.. in (0.3-0.S em). White to cream patches. dispersed at first but growing together 10 form a large sheet. Shan tubes at the margin, lengthening toward the center and looking like spines Wi th age. Tiny white pores. stained wi th ocher, varying in shape from circular, elon- gated, angular, or labyrinthirn!, absent on the margin. Flesh :4 in (1 mmlthick, whitish, leathery, toughening when dry. HABITAT: on deciduous trees. espKially hornbeam, ash, and oak, in forests and parks. Present all year round. Common and widespread throughoullhe temperate 20ne. PLiCATUROPsls CRISP A Shriveled Polyport: DESCRIPTION: l: '/,-'I.. in (1-2 em). h ~ linle fan-sh.1ped caps arl! borne on a very short stem. The upper surface, is velvety and varies from yellow through fawn, some- THELEPHORA TERREsTRls Earth-fan DESCRIPTION: 0:2-4 in (5-10 em). The fungus actually consists of numerous indiVidual fruiting-bodies bonded together at the base and of unequal size, tiered, spread out, or funnel -shaped_ The marge is fringed. Twigs and pine-needles are often enousted in the flesh. The upper surface is reddish-bfown then paler at the edge and covered in stiff hairs. The underside is paler, irregularly warty or wrinkled. The flesh is coriaceous and spongy. times with alternate bands, paler at the mar- gin, often undulating and turned under al the edge. The underside has radial whitish folds which look like shriveled gills. The flesh is soft and elaslic when fresh, hard and brit- tle in dry weather. The fungus is odorle!>S and has a mild flavor. HABITAT: grows in large numbers on the dead branches of various deciduous trees, especially ~ c h and hazel. Summer and fall. Fairly common but easily passes unnoticed. HABITAT: on the ground, on pine-needles. or half-buried twigs. in coniferous or mixed forests. Dry, acid soil. All year round but mainly in the fall. Fairly common. THE APHYLLOPHORALES SCUTIGER OVINUS, ALBATRELLUS OVINUS, CALOPORUS OVINUS Sheep Po!ypore DESCRIPTION: H: 1'1,.2 in (410 em), 0: 2'/.6 in (7-15 em). Cap has a !IW1 rn,ygil. sometme5lOOed. mte at """"-"-IUOOg"""" -MIen old. Small rcml JXlIes 01 the s.:rne o:tlt Sho1. thick, ceotral a excentric simla i'1 cola to the cap. Flesh pale 'Nith mild flavor, EDIBILITY Good 10 ut wbcn young, but OntO wonn-uteD, with firm flesh iM:coming COlUcto\lll iilnd bitter with Igt. HABITAT: in groups, with stipes or caps sometimes welded together. 00 moss In old IOfests. From late sumlTll'f thlough late fall. Fairly common in mountainous regions. fall' in the lowlands. SPECIAL FEATURES This fungus MUS $Orne rntmblance to the common Hedgehog fungus, but the sbttp pol)'POrc Iw no spines. HYDNUM REPANDUM Hedgehog Mushroom, Wood Hedgehog SPECIAL FEATURES The RedMning Hedgehog Mushroom .. ",(aw.s) is JOmClimes confused wilh Ihe Hedgehog Fungus, bUllhe IifilM' iii (enlnl Ihinne. Ihe fungus is smaller and redder. 801h arc edible. DESCRIPTION: H:2- 4 in (510 em), 0:1 1." 6in(3-1Scml The irregularly shaped undulating cap is sometHnes lobed and bonded to other caps. The margin is iorol led in young specimens. 11 is creamy whi le, slightly velvety. and reddens Slightly. The of the cap is covered in solt !opines the same (olor as the cap which are easily detached. They are -J, in (1 em) long in older Slipe central or excet1- trk, shcwt and up 10 1 'I. in (3 em) thick fleshy and full, irregu lar, oft en WIVed and swollen al Ihe base, deeply embedded in the soil and the same coo as the cap but reddenlllg when llan died. Flesh firm and brittle. white, bomlng orange-red when exposed \0 the air 101 a few hour!>. flaYOf mild or sligtltly peppery. slightly bitter in older specimens. Often glom alongside the Reddening Hedgehog Mushroom (Hydnum rufescens). THE APHYLLOPHORALES HABI TAT: forms rings in the moss of fOlem of oak, beech, or chestnut, mixed foresls. and coniferous foresls in fall and early winter. Its fie!.hy consis- tency enables It 10 resist minor frosts. lrtlll")' M'hi/t (I( sligJlliI rtllJislt f/tsb)\ 'Thl'l)' {[II' EIJIBILITY Although some people find it 10 be of ~ n l e inlerUt, the Hedgehog Mushroom is olttn considered good 10 cal . The firm, crunchy nesh has a slightly spicy laSIC, reminiscent of that of the ChantertUc. The Hedgehog Mushroom should be eaten )'ollng, because it becomes bitter as it ages. To rrmovc any bitterness, it is advisable !O throwaway any liqllid given offby the mushroom 011 the start of cooking, instead of kning it evaporate. II should bt si mmered over low hUI. The finn Desh makes it possi ble 10 pickle small specimens in vinegar and serve them iI.5 condimcnu. SPECIAL FEATIJRES The Hedgehog Mushroom is 100 d;sl;nc- ti\c to be confused with any poisonous varicty, since none of h ~ mushrooms v.ilh spines in place of gills arc poi sonous. Seen from above, the Sheep rolyporc (Albm,rl/us O,1HUS), which;5 good 10 cal, looks very much like Ihe Hedgehog Fungus, bUI il has portS instead of spincs on the undersidc of the cap and;s more likdy to be wonn-catcn. AURISCALPIUM VULGARE Ear-pi ck Fungus DESCRIPTI ON: H:l ',.-4 in (3-10 cm), 0:',,-'1. in (1-2 cm), The cap Is kldneyshaped, bfown or reddtsh brown, covered in fine, dense hairs. The spines are 10119 and large in relatioo to the size of the cap, and are dirty white, then turning brown. The stipe is thin, lateral, darker than the cap and also hairy. The flesh is thin, (oriaceous. arld white. The species is easily identifiable due to it beil'lg the only variely of hedgehog fungus to grow on pinecones. HABITAT: mostly grows on pinecones which are hallburied in the soil. All year round, especially in spring and fall. Com mon, but difficutt to spot due to its size and color. tr.edible, SPFCIAL FEATURF.S AU rungi with spines inttud of giLk wrrt oner included in the genU$ Urallll'" and the br.pick f\lnp' the boWli wllilme of /lp/IIIIIII Today the genU$ has bun into different genera bufd on rcolop. nl differences and microscopic cham: teristks. Thrst wngi have bern placed in different families. THE APHYLLOPHORALES HERICIUM RAMOSUM. H. CLATHROIOES White Coral Fungus DESCRIPTI ON; H:3 ',.,6 in (815 em). 0:410 in (1025 em). lva)' v.tIite or cream, ~ 'Nim age. The hr1gus is attaehed to the substrate try a mid: SIJpE!. wIldl brandles lOlO fruiting-bodies to srFCIAl HATURFS The ConI Fungu' (Uerid"," ((Jr/dIoiMS), II r d l ~ d 5pt'ciu, grows on (onfers; the spinu au of YlnOUS lengths Ind art gflltraUy ranillifd and art found at the fnd of bl'ilnchu only. which the spines are attached. The spines are arranged in (CONS on the sides or underside. The flesh is fragile and 'My friable, wtlite, with a faint aoo pleasant ocb; and mikl flavor. HABITAT: gems at the base of dead deOOJ ous nees. especially beech Late surnmef and fall. Uncommon and rather localized. Goodla UI when young, boming s1ighlly 'ONceD"'! and bitter with age. CRATERELLUS CORNUCOPIOIDES j'lo rn of Plenty DESCRIPTION: H:, ',, 4'f, in (4-12 em), 0: 1/. ]'/. in (lS em), Trumpetshaped fungus whose margin is curved outward and becomes brown, streaked with darker lines which turn black in damp Wf'alhef. The exterior surface is gray, plumose, smooth, or slightly veined. then rough or swollen, and also black when wet. The stipe is sometimes sinuous, becom ing thinner at the base and i/regularly swollen.The lIesh is thin and elastic, the fla- vor mild and the odor fruity. The flesh is nevI.'! wormeaten, HABITAT: in very large colonies in lowland forests of oak, hombeam, and hazelnut. Rarer on high ground ur.der conifers. Prefets very damp soil, clay. limestone, or neutral THE APHYLLOPHORALES SPF.CIAI FEATURES Two other snullu, rarer spuits of Cratrrtll us II rc dosdy rtl.ud 10 the Horn of Plrnty which the French call the Trumpet of the Dnd, no doubt due to ils black color. They are: the Sinuous Chanlcrcllr S;ftUflSUS), which is paler in color, ocher-brown or gray, and decorat ed with brown fibrils and with II very sinuous, lobd margin. The utcTn;d surfact of the Ifllmp(:1 is ochnctous and also covered in II whitt bloom. It grows in the same type of foruls, bUI on more acid soi ls. - the Gray Chantutl1e (PSfudocrllttrtl lu! ci"trrus) has a strong odor of mirabelle plum and by the presencc of strongly marked, gill-like folds below the up. II grows in the same habitat liS the Horn of Plenty. (non-acidic). from late September through lale November, occa- sionally appearing in June if Ihere is enough rain, bUI such growth is very local- ized and short-lived. The fungus seems 10 grow in cycles. which would explain why il is abundant in cerlain years and absent in other!.. However, il may be abundant or rare ill the !>ame season, depending on the region. The Horn of Plenty maku ncellent eating. II can M !!cwd and made into 3 sauce to be nten with venison, jugged harr, and olhtr types of game. It is also added to stews, pites, and other types of chareuterk These trumpet-shaped fungi have the advantage of drying u sily and the flavor is even enhaned by dessication. Once dried, it can even be crushed to powder and uled as a condiment, to flavor sauces. Befort duning the fungus, it should be split lengthwise because the holl ow interior of len contains earth, insect laf'lae, and even slugs. CANTHARELLUS c/BAR/uS Chantcrclle DESCRIPTION: H: ,'/.-4'11 in (3-12 em) 0: , '/.4 in (3 10cm). ' The whole lungus is entirely bl'jght Yi!lIow. The cap is at first, with an inrolled, regular margin. 11 lalef sinks into a funnel - shape, and the margin becomes more sinu- ous and undulating. The folds or veins under the cap look like gi lls. They are thick and de<:urrefl l, straight at first, then forked and then more sinuous and mOle heavily forked. 1 D1BIIITV A very mushroom, IUghly soughl Jetr and sold cOllUMrcilolly in lIWIy COIlIImes. It is worm-u rn and it t.sy to slore and The C!u.ntfftUC . hould be l immtud Ovtf low hu t. II is used .u In a((omjWIi IMllt 1(1 pouluy, fish, or p me and an enD be eaten Til W. THE APHYLLOPHORALES With transvef5e, interconnecting veins.. The stipe slightly toward the base. The whitish flesh betomes more fibrous in the stipe and with age. The flavor is mild and slightly peppery. and the pleasant fruity odor is often compared to apricot Of plum. HABITAT: Grows in groups in foresls, grOVt!s, Of plantations of deciduous trees, principally oak, hazel, or chestnut, as well as under conifers. Appears in late May through October on acidic soil. The Chanterelle appears in the same places every year after heavy rain followed by several days of warm weather. It is common in many regioos. bul is lending to become rarer, espedally in Eastern Europe. Thefe are several varieties or fOfms 01 the Chanterelle. When it grows under hazelnut, it is smaller, fleshy, and appears later in the year. When il grows under bee<:h and fir. il is morl! fleshy and mum paler. The variety can be found in the undergfOwth under deciduous tree$. It is quote large {0: 24'" in (Sll em)). and has violet scales in the center of the cap. The bicoIot variety. which is also found under deciduous trees, is very pale yellow beneath the cap. The other part5 are identi cal to the classic form. Camharellus friesii. is only 'I, to 1 'I, in (I to 4 em) in diameter and is br;ghter orange. PO HNT1AL (ONHJS10N OMPHAL07VS OLEARIUS Olive tru PleutOM POISONOUS I fYCROPHOR.OPSIS AVRANTlACA False Chamtrelle POISONOUS CANTHARELLUS LUTESCENS Yellowing Chantcrcllc DESCRIPTION: H: 2-4'1, in (5 12 em), 0: 1'/,2'1, in (3-6 em). The thin cap funnel -shaped cap is often pierced in Ihe center.lhe margin is often curved downward, but later flattens and becomes undulalir.g, curly, and sometimes lobEd. The surface is (overed in brown fib rils 00 a 'ff!lIowishbrown background. The undl:!rside of Ihe cap is lightly Cfeased and brightly col ored orange or salmon pink. whidl con trasts With the brown upper surface. The stipe is long and thin, up to ii '/, Ifl (12 em) long for a diameter of less than '" in (1 em) . It is cylindrical or often slightly co plessed, and may haY(! a central furrow 1\ is bright yel low. even when old. Ve!'j thin flesh smelling of plum, HABITAT: deciduous or coniferous forests, espedaUy under pines, from the lowlands 10 Ihe mountains. on acidic soil. Absent from certain regions. but very common in othe!;. Grows in large colonies. fall and early win ter. ln warmer climates. such as the South of France, it grows in wintl'f (until February), FDlBJI lTV Although the fl"h is vcry thin, the Yel- lowing Chanlerdlc panicularly good eating, II is ol'ttn confuftd wirh the Tubular Chanttrel1e and both fungi are called tht Gray Chanrerellt, but the flavor i5 much stronger and the consis- ttncy 1"5 rubbery. [t an also be dried very n sily. All ChanrelcUe, Un be iden_ tified by the ribs or veins on thc under- side of tbe cap, instead of gills. THE APHYLlOPHORAlES CANTHARELLUS TUBAEFORMIS Tubular Chanterelle DESCRIPTION: H: H'" in (5-12 em), 13: '/.il. in (27 ern). When young, the fungus is nail-shaped, with a tiny cap 00 a long, narrow st ipe, The cap expands gradually and becomes corn:ave, eventually becoming deeply hmnelshaped. The center 01 the cap is ohen pierced with a small hole which leads to the hol low stipe. The margin is imolled in the young speci men, becoming !>inuous and urxlulating. The upper surface of the cap is ocher through EI>IBILIl Y QUilf good {O tal, rhough not strongly Oavored, arid of a rather l'\Ibbery consis- teney. It ill never worm-catcn and grows in large colonics, so 11 basket is soon filled. It can thus be prepared like 11 wgctablt. [I dril'!l vtry well, as long as it is not waterlogged when picktd, a con- dibon thai should Ix avoided when picking illly m ... shroom. ---------------------------------------------------- gray-brown and the undetsi<!e is covered thick, widely spaced, decurrent, forked folds Of veins instead of gills. are /'i!ilow, then turning gray or gray- ishviolet. The stipe is very Ior.g in relation to the cap. often (om- pressed and hollow, It is golden, then ocher and finally grayish like the folds SPFClAI I FATURFS The Tubular Chanttrdlc i.sometimes confuscd with othcr typu of ChilRlucll c bUI rhis i. nOI important Mcause all of them art edible. Howcvu, thue is iI dangu tlll,l some Imall varieties of Cortinariul, Ilich is the Cinnamon Cortinatiu. (COrtiltll,;UJ ciN''''",OlflCIlS) may grow in the midst of a colony of Chanlcrelln and may accidentally be picbd along with them. The Cinnamon Cortinniu. dots nOI have a funnelshaped cap and it has true gill. which art nOI decurrent. It is Ihudort vcry important 10 lorl the harvest careful ly. There is yellow form of thc which i, goldenyellow ",II over a UP. with a of no more tbn I ', in (3 em). In thi, variety, tbe margin unrolls vcry Ind the nuh is thicker. The variety is commoner undcr deciduous trtCS th n it is under conifers. d((urrtw, (oMs, rtStlllbliwg lilt gills 11{ "it "&drils, t'tJ/IIW l/tt .. 8'''t' THE APHYllOPHORAlES al the top. The flesh is thin, rather elastic, with a faint odor and mild flaV()(, HABITAT: grows in colonies. consisting of tightly packed speci- mens. on moss or pine-needle liner In comfer- ous forests. mainly under ScOI5 pine aod sp-uce, more rarely under de<idu0IJ5 trees. It ohen hides under heaps of k>pped branches or beside sllCh heaps, as ~ as near old, rotten stumps. II normally appears In fall and early win- ter. but it is not uncomlTl()(l to find il growing in midwinter. The winter !>pe(imens usually remain small. The fUl1<}uS persists well inlo the cold weather and can withstand a certain amoon\ of frost. The fun- gus freezes but thaws out wilen the weather turns warmer. GOMPHUS FLOCCOSUS Scaly Gomphu5 DESCRIPTION: H:2'I.7 In (7-18 em). 0:2-6 in (5 15 em). The fungus is cylindrical at firsl. expandIng ill the top and funne!sllaped and hollow at 11M.> bottom. The ytliow 10 Ofangl!red mal- gin is undulalH'Ig and lobed and covered in scales that ale nat at the margin and erect in the center. The (ream, yellow, Of ocher f.[)JBILI rv Although occuionollly nltn, rhi, fun- gus and ils relativn should bt ,1. voided, siner they .Ie indigutiblc and 50mclimu himr. DESCRIPTI ON: H: l 'I,. 4 In (4 10 em), 0:',,,,'4 in (0.2- 0.'1 em), This fungus often grows In tufts, and II may be upright, ()'Iindrical, 01 becoming shghtly 01 wlIh aver heal furrow, often twisted, hollow, and b!"it- tie, WIth a pointed 01' rounded top. It is pure while, yellowtng WIth age at lhe lip. The is HABITAT: In grclSS 01' Ofl bafe soil. Spring through fall. Uncommon but widespread. outer wrface is wrinkled and folded. The stipe is thick and tapering at the bottom, bet:oming hollow, smooth 01 fibrillose, yel- low to orange. The flesh is whitish. HABITAT: under mnilers or in forests in summer. Quite common. THE APHYLLOPHORALES CLA VULINA CINEREA Ash-gray hiry Club DESCRIPTION: H: 11.4 in (3-10 em). The fungus look.s like a tiny buoch of antlefs with natleoed, cuNed, bfanches. the liPS are tapering and rounded, and of uneven lengths. They are ash gray, s0me- times tinged WIth lilac. '!hi! stem Is about 'I, in (1 (m) in diameter. The soft flesh Is bitter and odorless. HABITAT: beneath c\e(lduous on the ground, more rarely under coollels, often in colonies. fall. fairly common. CLAVULINA CRISTATA Crtsled fairy Club DESCRIPTI ON: H 1 '1 .. 4 in (310 em). This Fail)' Club is J shaped like a bush or, when the branches arl! lighlly packed. liKe a cauliflower. Ills usu- ally pure while, bill sometimes il is pale gray_ The ups of the llIaoches ale flattened and dentate or lobed i. like a coxcomb The is willie, odcJffes.s. and mild. HABITAT: On bare soil or decomposing wood, along paths. In ruts,. and under de<idu 0I.tS and COOliefOus trees. SUrnmef 10 early winlel'. Very common. FDlBII.lTY Somt pfoplt tal Ihi5 fllry Club and 10 ha,c a pluliInl navar, but ;1 is not (Of" a1110lSttS. RAMARIA ARA/OSPORA Fiery Coral Fungus DESCRIPTION: H: 2-4'" in (5-12 un). 0: 1'''.2 1 " in (3-7 em). This Coral Fungus Is thickly bfafl(hed abovf! the and hl'ight red or scarlet, th(! tips be<oming to yellow. The base is wt1lle or yellowish-while. The stipe is short or absent, 11. in (3 em) long at the most. The flesh is thick and fibrous. HABITAT: gOM in the fan I.IxIer 'M!Stem hem kxk(Tsuga in NonhAmerica. EOJRIII TY Good to t at, and harvMltd in large qu.anliliu in !he northwCSltm United Statts. RAMARIA FLACCIDA Flacci d Coral Fungus DESCRIPTION:: H: 1'1.-V. in (3-6 on). YelloN ochefto 1x"0MIish ocher tv;n:hes '" to '" in (1 10 3 mm) thick. Color does not charge when tooched. lIrancheseryj ina.e or two paler teeth. Stipe " lOb in (0.5 10 1 on) thid: with ....nile base. 'Mlite ftbrcus flesh, titter taste. HABITAT: grows on the ground in lines or cil- des. under conifers,l!Spe(ially Norway spruce, in mountainous regions at altitude. Summer and fall. Common. to RAAIARJA FORJUOSA Bcauuful Coral fungus POISONOUS THE APHYLLOPHORALES 100 101 RAMARIA FORMOSA Beautiful Coral Fungus DESCRIPTION: H: 4-12 in (10- 30 em), In8 in (5-20 em). thIS handsome cOIal fungus has eftct, cylindrical branches, which may be slraight or bent and have ramifications at the lips. It is an allractlVE! !oalman pm!:. except at the tips which all! brillianllemon yellow. As 11 glows older, the fungus becomes ochraceoos orange all 0Yef. The RAMARIA STRICT A Erect Coral Fungus DESCRIPTION: H: 1'1,-4 in (4-10 em). This (oral fungus has V!rtlcal, densely packed. straight arxl Yee-shap!d brandies. In young specimef1s the color valles from the narlOW, pointed lip which is pale yellow and the lower part of the branches which Is red- dish ocher Of pinkish ochef. The whole fun- gus reddens WIth age and turns brown when rubbed. It has no stipe; the lower part forms a short trunl:: whidl txtends into the whitt filaments of the mycelium tmbtddtd in the wMtrate. The nesh is wtilte Of pale ytllow, coriaceous. with a pleasant odor but bitter, peppe'Y taste. SUp! is short, MUlish then turning pinkish. The pinkish-gray flesh is brit- tle when cut. The flavor is fairly MleI' HABITAT: de<:iduous fOfests, espe- cially under beedl, also found in mixed woods. Summer through fall, UllCommon. HABITAT: on the dead and rotten branches of de<iduous trees (especially beech) or on conifers. some- times embedded In the found on sawdust or wood Sum- mer througtl fall. Fairly common. RAMARIOPSIS KUNZEI, CLAVARIA KUNZEI Kunze's Coral Fungus DESCRIPTION: H 11.-4 In (4-10 em), 0; I I,-n in (H an) ThiS bushy (Olal fungus has few bul dense ramificatIOnS, endif"lg In !ohoft lorks. The Stipe is absent 01 only I. 10 ',.111 (1 \02 (m) long and '4 in (4 mm) wide Fragil e lIesh. HABITAT: on lhe ground or ITIOi'I! rarely on 101\109 wood, In woodland, meadows. or at the edge 01 fiekk. $umrrtef through lall. Uf"lCommoo. THE APHYLLOPHORALES SPARASSIS CRISPA Cauli flower Fungus DESCRIPTI ON: 0:4-16 in (1040 em). A globulose mass of densely pa<:ked, wrinkled fronts, loolcing like a cauliflower or a spooge, creamy white at Ii!;!, then ocher. The brarl(hes are flattened and sinuous, divided and very numerous, splitting at tips when old. Very short thick, white stipe. flesh smelling slightly of drma- mon, lender but slightly {oria- CellUS when older, lasting of hazelnut. HABITAT: Almost always on 0.- near conifer SlUmps or living trunks. especially pine, sometimes spruce. Oiten grows again in the l'OTENTIAI. CONFUSION ,. RAJUARIA FORMOSA &autrNt Coral Fung\ls POISONOVS FDiBILlTY Good 10 ut )'oung. Flavor of older specimen, less pleasant. and Ncoming rubbery and slightly laxative. It is often cooked with cream and good Karoning. II needs long and urerol washing. same places. Fall, sometimes summer. Fairly common in mountainous regions. SPECIAL FEATURES Some Sp('cimens of the CauliDower Fun- gus can weigh up 10 22lb (10 kg)! A vel)' bUI much rarer species, Ihe leafy Fungus bm;/",s), is only found nur or allht base of ook IfftS. The art flalltr, wider and Dop. pier. It smeUs s1ighlly of bleach and;s $,lid 10 slightly 10xic. CLAVARIADElPHUS PISTILARIS Giant Fairy Cl ub DESCRI PTI ON: H 4 10in(1025eml. 0: '/. 2 in (B em). This club!Jlaped fungus can take on very diverse appearances. Jt may be tall or !Jlort, WIth a swollen rounded trp, Of rather puffy and bloated. The surface is smooth at first, bec:om ing deeply wnnkled or folded. Yellow at first, reddelling when mature The flesh is soli in young specimens, later becom ing hard and fibrous. It is while, changing 10 red dishbfa.vn when cut. Faint odor, billet taste HABITAT: singly 01 in groups uncler deciduous trees. tspeCially bee<h, on lintstone SOil. Late SOO'fTlef through fall. Uncommon. srI-< IAI FFATt JRfS Tht Truneated Fairy Club (Clal'llr;/IJd , tllllf looks very ' ;lIIi11(, but the top is not rounckd, but &'t, as if truneated. I DlBIIITY Not good to ut dut 10 the biller flavor and fibrous tuture. In lome platn, notably eastern it is picked young, pidded in vineg;u and uttd as I tondiJMnt. THE APHYLLOPHORALES DESCRI PTI ON: H: ]'1.6 in (815 em), 0: '/.-l'b i1 (2-4 em), This fungus i$ shaped li ke an upturoed cone,. The top is swollen and the margin extl'nds over the edge. forming a ridge. 11 is pale yellow, turning ocher and final ly re<Xlish. Stipe indis tinct. The lower part is ocher and slightly wrin- kled. The flesh i$ firm, soon be<omrng spongy, ....nIle or pale ocher, witll a faint odor aocl sweet taste. HABITAT: forests of fir and mixed forests in the mountains, oolimeslone soil and in cool, humid regions. late summer and fall . fairly uncommon. CLAVULINOPSIS HELVOLA Yellow Fairy Club DESCRIPTI ON: H:l ".-2'h in (36 em), Tall narrow, founded spi kes or clubshaped fungus without branches, often bent Dr wrved, and may have a vertical furrow. Golden-yellow, paler toward the base. Flesh, pale yellow aod Ilblou!" Odorless but wilh a mild flavor. HABITAT: i!>Olaled or in groups. in the grass or moss of lawns or in woods. Fall. Widespread but uncommon.
105 -------------------------------------- CUPHOPHYUUS PRATENSIS, CAMAROPHYLLUS PRATENSIS Meadow Wall .eap DESCRIPTION: H: 1 '1,,3',. in (48 em), 0: 1".-3'1, In (38 em). Cap convex at first but soon flattening and ending Wlth an upturned margin and a lafge central umbo. Flesh thick in the cen- ter, thin <l I the edge. Slightly greasy to the touch, aprKO\ or salmon pink. Thick, wide, cream-colored gills. wide apart, slightly dKurrenl. Thid supe narrowing toward tile base and often curvt'd, smooth and bfif1ll', paler in color than the cap. Flesh thkk in the center of r the cap. pale orange. Pleasant odor and mild flavor. HABITAT: In well drained meadows. beside paths. espe cially at an altitude of over 1,670 ft (500 m), Fall . (ommon to uncommon btll
CUPHOPHYLLUS VIRGINEUS, HYGROPHORUS NIVEUS Snow-white Wax-cap DESCRIPTION: H: 1 '1.-3'1. 111 (48 em), odIef or reddish s.pots. WhIle gills 0: '/r 1'/, In (1 -4 em). Cap (olllcal aod umbonate at lirst. then flat- tening, often Wi th a central depression; fleshy under the cent er, pure whi l e, THE TRICHOLOMATALES ..!!L ' 09 very wide apart and decurrent. Stipe and sinuous. white "',"'" wi,h pink or red al the base. FleVi white HABITAT: meadcrovs and pastures. mossy lawns, grassy moors. and damp, glassy woods where it is frequently con HYGROCYBE PSITTACINA "arrQI Wax-cap DESCRIPTION: H:I'/,. 2'/. in (4 7 em), 0;)/.-, '1, in (24 em). Hemispherical or campanulate (ap becom- fined to the edga From fall through early wintef. Common and widespread. .. CUTOCYBE OEALBATA, C. RlVULOSA. C. CANDICANS Whitt Cbtocybcs POISONOUS iog COI'M!K or IlaUened, umbonate, with striated margin. Very viscid, blue-green dis- (010(109 with age 10 yellow orange; the cap may be multkolon!d. Gills ~ i h t t y emargl!late, yellowi!oh-green or orange. Stipe solid al first, thef1 hollow, and with the same viS- cosity and coloiallon as the cap. green at first, then yellowing from the base. Yellow green IIesh thin, odorIm and Oavorlm. HABITAT: meadows, pastures, roadsides, in lowlands and highlands. Summer through late faiL Uncommon. '\PH I AI FFATl IRFS Thr I/JI""t'w ~ brightly colored Will ups which grow in grutWId. ~ y of thrm appur 10 br brcoming Ie" nu.mcrolli. HYGROCYBE CHLOROPHANA Lemon Wax-cap DESCRIPTION; H: "J..3 n (37 em), (l jj, .. 3 in (3-1 on). CorM!)( cap. 1LattefW'g. retan"g a cecllrallJ:'J'lOO "" be<oow>g s>j>""""""" ....... "",,, striated. vised. p1en !hen w yeIow Pale ,..,. "" """" ""'" "" _ . S"'"' ""'. _ ,..,.. hoi_ "" s>j>!Iy _ . TOO. pale yellem IIeVi aoo oOOr\ffi, mild flavor. SPfCIAL HATl ' RI S obnr!StJli is mother solMn- ye:Uow hygrophoNS, bul the "P conical and the stipe is nOI ,;,ad, HYGROCYBE COCCINEA Scarlel Wax-cap DESCRIPTION: H: 1 "._3',. In (4-8 em), I: '1.-2 In (25 (m). CQf1vex cap. blood-re(j at first, theflturning pmk as it ages. Widely-spaced gills. red dish orange men turning yel - lower, alw.lys yellow al the edges, Stem hollow, slightly often With a longi- tudinal furrow, or<lf'lge-red but yellow <l It he base. Flesh Ihln, HABITAT: !1O\4l'S" and the edge of 'NOOdIaod and beside hedge!> in wmmef Ihroujl fall. UI'I(OITlmon but widespreild golden-yellow to red: falll! odor and mild flavor whkh Is hard to define. HABITAT: grows in Ifoops on gr;ml,md and <lIthe edge of forests. Summer and lalL Uncommon, mom frequently found al higher altitudes. Widespread. THE TRICHOlOMATALES ...!1Q... '" HYGROCYBE MfNfATA Vermillion Wax-cap DESCRIPTI ON: H: ".-1. in (2-5 em), 0: 'h- l 'I. in (1-3 em). Cap hemispherical at first, then corwex or flattened, more or less dePfessed in the cell- ler, with striated margin {overed in liny tightly-packed scales. vermillion then lUmir.g yellow. Gills the same color. Hollow, br ittle stipe wlth smooth, matle, dry surface, red with an orange-yellow \0 pale yellow base. Flesh orange and odo!less. mild flavor. HABITAT: lawns and heaths. on add soil, especially in the mountain!>. Fairly (ommon and widespread. HYGROPHORUS COSSUS Stinking Wax-cap DESCRIPTI ON: H:24 In (510 un), 0: 11.-3'1. in (3g em), The cap is hemispherical and conical, Ihefl flattened, wi th a smooth, viscid surface. whi te to cream, turning yellow or brown- SPECIAL HATURFS This Wax-cap resembles the 1\'01)' Wax- cap bUI is more slcndrr; the unpleasant odor of cooked Jerusaltm artkhokes makes it distinctive. The botanical epithet O S S I / S ~ comes from the name of a moth whose caterpillar has the same unpleas- ant odor as the mU5hroom. ish-ocher iflthe center with age. J Gills broad aod <ream-<olored. Stipe narrowing at the base, viscid. with flakes adher- ing at the top, aeamy white. yellow Ing with age. Thkk white fle!J1 With unpleasant smell and mild flavor. HABITAT: deciduous for em, especially oak ami mixed woods. (om- moner in warmer dimates. on limestone soils. Fall. HYGROPHORUSEBURNEUS [yory Wa)( -cap DESCRIPTION: H:2 ' 1t-4',. in (612 em). 0:4'/,..4 in (4-10 em). Hemisphel'ital or conical cap. bec:oming flattened and more or !eM undulalll'lg. WIth margm which remains imolled !Of a long lime. Vefy viscid, pure while, then cream-tinted. Thick. white, widely spaced gills, slightly decurrent. long. while, viscid slipe, thinner at the base, often WNlng, granuiose or floccose al !he lop. Flesh thin and HYGROPHORUS HYPOTHEJUS Yellow-gill ed Wax-cap DESCRIPTION: H:il,-4 In (6 10 em), 0:1'/.2'1. in (3] em). Cap or campaoulate at filst, then HABITAT: often glows in colonIeS In de<iduous lareslS, especially beech woods. on non-aodic soil. Early through late fall. Fairly (ommon. flallemng and become slightly in the (!Oter, wuh or without an umbo, malgln remaining inrolled for a long time. Cap fib- rillow. very VIKid, oIive-brcmn palll'09 to yeI- Iowhel as il dlies. Gills S9iK1!d. de<urrenl, white turning progressively bright yelloworange. Stipe long and thin, very viscid, eKcepl allhe top, while then yeliowis/H)lar.ge. Flesh thick, I'filite, yellowish-orange under !he cutJCk!. ododes\ with mild fIavcw HABITAT: coniferous forests, mainly pinewoods. on acidic wil!>. It appears late. alter the first frosts. in late fall and early wrntel'. Fairly common and widespread. THE TRICHOlOMATALES ...!.!!.. ,,, HYGROPHORUS MARZUOLUS March Wax-cap DESCRIPTION: HI I,:3'/. in (4- 8 em). 0:24/, in (5-12 em). Cap thick, hemispherical at firs! then convex or ilallened, or slightly depressed. umbonate, with a margin thai remains imolled for a long time. White when VOUng. turning grayish and eYef1llially blackish. Gills thiel, stJa'9ht. slightly de<Ullent. while then graYIng. becoming wider apafl with age. Slip!! thick and short, lull, while then wrning gray like the 16! of the fungus. flesh thick and white, odorless With a mild flaYOl'. HABITAT: In small groups in coniferous forests, mainly fir, pine, and spruce, 1\ is often hidden by moss or puW!-needle hilI!!'. On limestone soil at mid-mountain a!!Jlude, but also in the lowlands in ITIOI'I! northerly rtglOl'lS- late WInter, lin9l'flng on into spnng In some SI'I ClAI HATIJRES Some ptoplc find if is nOI lall)' and claim th,lI ils only virtue is thai il in early winter whrn eclible mushrooms Ire al their rlIfftl. regions. Fairly common \0 rare, depending on the reglOll, Edibk, though Ihere it some clisp"te al to whether il is wonh eating. HYGROPHORUS OLiVACEOALBUS Oli ve Wax-call DESCRIPTI ON: H: 46 in (10-15 em), 0: 2-tl. in (5-8 em). Hemispherical 01 campanulale cap, becom- ing convex 01 flattened with an umbo, 'li!ry viscid, olive-brown, darl:ening in Ihe cenler. Gills decurrent and bow-shaped, waxy. Not partiruLuty good, and the viscid cuticle should N pt'dtd off. white to pale gray. Stipe lall and slender (46 in (IO IS em)), very viscid, (overed in olivf!bwwn stripes. except at ~ lOp which is while and dry, the two zones being sepa- rated by a fairly distiIX\ ring. WhiTish lIesh, thick only in Ihe center; odor and lIavor not characteristic HABITAT: under spruce, glowing among bilberries. blueberries, and moss, on add soils. Common in the late summer and fall. THE TRICHOLOMATALES HYGROPHORUS PUDORINUS Modest Wax.cap DESCRIPTI ON: H: )'/.-4'/ .. in (812 em). 0: l/.S in (8 13 em)_ Cap hemispherical then convex WIth inrolled margin, fleshy, very viscid in damp weather, malle and silky In dry weather, pale odIIa ceous-orange to fawn, in the center and oumy pink at the margin. Gills broad I DlBII.ITY Some specimen, lIave such a strongly resinous Ibvor that they art intdiblt . Others arc mtffly of poor edibility. and WIdely spaced, bowshaped and only shghtly decullent, wtllle at then of a color Similaf to that 01 the cap. Stipe bulbous. thicl: (up to 1 J. in (3 em)), slightly viscid al first, the same coo as the gills and brOWfling Slightly at the base, doned Wilh pinkishwhite granulations <lIthe top, Flesh while, pinkish ul'lder Ihe wIKle of Ihe cap. wllh a resinous odOf. Flavor mlkllo slightly CKrid or strongly resinous. HABITAT: urder conifers. especially spt'uce and Ilf, on noo-acK!i< soil. and even lime- stone Commoner on high ground. HYGROPHORUS RUSSULA Russula Wax-cap DESCRIPTION: H:3'/.-6 in (8-15 em). 0:3'-'-6 in (8-15 em). Cap hemispherical then convex, neshy, can analn 8 in (20 em) in diameter, viscid al lirst, PLEUROTUS CORNUCOPIAE Branched Oyster Mushroom DESCRIPTION: H: ',. -4 in (2 10 em), 0:1 '/,.4'" in (4 12 em). funnelshaped tap, 01 unHOfm color, oeamy wilile or beige, dail::ening with age Creamy gilk vel)' decurrent, bonded \ogethef al the base of the stipe to form a n e l ~ Stipe cen- Ira! Of extentri(. CldoJ pleasant, flavor mild. then dry, pinkish, rapidly becoming cov- ered in dark pink spots. Gi lls tightly packed, wide, nonde<urren1. while Of pale pink. becoming spotted with darker pink. Stipe thk\:, up \0 1 in (4 em) in diameter, the same color as thl' cap. covered in longitudinal purple fibers, graoulose at the lOp. flesh pale or spoiled with dark red spots, pleasant fruity odor, mild or Slightly bitter flavor. HABITAT: often in groups under deciduous trees such as oak and beh, on limestone soil. Summer and fall. Fairly common in more southerly regions, HABITAT: singly 01 more often in tufts on stumps or the dead branches of various deciduous trees (elm, WIllow, poplar, oak, beh, etc.), May throogh August. Fairly com- mon in the south, rarer in the flOIth. THE TRICHOLOMATALES PLEUROTUS ERYNGII Eryngo Oyster Mushroom DESCRIPTION: H:l '/.-3'I. in (3-8 em). 0:2/1 '1, in em). Cap then flattening, margin almost always inrolled, smooth, beige 10 brown. Gills quite widely spaced, decurrent, creamy white or reddening. Stipe excenllic or (en tral, usually wrved, white and velvety. flesh white, quite firm, pleasant flavor and odor. HABITAT: in dry. meadoY.ts on poor soli and and fallow land. Dewlaps on the dead roots of eryngo and sea-holly, coasts. Spring through fall. fairly commoo along the coast and in soolhem regions. PLEUROTUS OSTREATUS Oyster Mushroom DESCRIPTION: H:l'/.-4 in (l 10 em), 0:2-6 in (5-15 em). Cap spatulate al first, extend ing to look mo;e like a mollusk shell, wi th a margin whkh remains inrolled for a IOrlgllme and a smooth surface with a (OIOf that varies but is uniform, ohen slate gray or gray-brown. be<oming paler with age. The very decurrent gills are ivory in color. Lateral stipe, more or less curved, generally very snort, velvety althe base. Flesh while with a pleasant odor and flavor. HABI TAT: forms compact lults 01 tiered specimens on klgs or the dead trunks of various diduous trees, such as poplar, wi llow, walnut, oak, and beech, from fall through early wimer and during the wimer in !>OUlhefly regions. Filllly (Om- mon and widespread. F.D1BILITY Coocl lO a l Should b.e picked young as il often bccomd worm-tillcn and coria (COlIS with agc. SPECIAL FEATURES The oyster mushroom;s now rultivated aU over the world. It;s grown inten sivdy in a manner similar to that of the Cultivated Mushroom. THE TRICHOlOMATALES ...l!.!. 119 LENT/NUS COCHLEATUS Spiral lcntinus DESCRIPTION: H:l/,4 in (410 (m). 0:1 ',.-3". in (38 em). Thi! cap is continuous with the stipe, giv- ing the mush loom the shape edged and cream to browni!>h. The stipe is (enual or eKceo tric and the same color as the cap at the top, darker at the base, The flesh is thick and coriaceous, whitish to beige, with a mild aniseed odor and of a (ornel(hat is notched on one side, The mar- gin is inrolled and is fawn or reddish bfOWf'l in color. The gills are strongly decurrent, saw- LENT/NUS T/GR/NUS Striped lcntinu5 DESCRIPTION: H: 1'1,-3',. in (4-8 em), 0: " "-4 in (4 10 em), Cap globose at firs!, be<:oming convex, and finally depressed in the center, with a thin, sinuous, inrolled margin that is often split; the backgroorld color is cream, covered with brown or black scales arranged in a fairly regular pattern, more densely in the (emer. Gills decurrent ar.d lightly packed. with an irregularly emarginate edge, creamy white then tinted orange. 5upe rnOfe or excen llic, thinning toward the base, whitish and brown toward the bollom, scaly like the cap. Flesh whi tish, elastic. Odor fruity, "avor mild at first, becoming acrid. flavor. HABITAT: in dense, tiered tufts on stump$ and at the base of trunks of de<;iduous trees. lale summer and fall . HABITAT: often grows in tults on willow and poplar, frequently beside water. From spring through fall. Uncommon but widespread. good to tat whn young, 100 (ori 3((OUS whn older. PANELLUS SEROTINUS Winter Pancllu$ DESCRIPTION: in (liO em). Shell -shaped or spatulate fungus. with a yellow-green or brownish cap. velvety but very viscid in wet weather with a margin which is inrolled at first Gills tightly packed and forked, pale yellow then pale ocher. Stipe la teral, very shon, ochla- ceous orange and cO'Iered in small bfown scales. Whitish flesh thick, oft, and elastic; faint odor and mild flavor. HABITAT: in tiered clumps. on branches and dead or living tree-trunks, especially wil DESCRIPTION: 0: '"., '" in (1-4 em). Semicircular cap. where attached 10 the stipe, with inrolled, striated or lur- low and alder, in damp places. especially beside waterways. late fall and winter. Fairly common. PANELLUS STIPTICUS Styptic Mushroom rowed margin, ocher Of pale !>fawn. Felted suriace, cracking with age. Russel gills crowded and ohen forked. Stipe excentric or lateral, very shoIt ('I. in (2 em) at the most) ar.d thinning toward the base, paler than the cap, soft and elastic, whitish or pale yellow, aromatic odor but bitter, acrid flavor, HABITAT: in dense, tiered clumps on dead wood, fallen branches. and the slumps of de(idllOUS trees. mainly oak. All year round, but mainly in the fall. Common. THE TRICHOlOMATALES >2. '" OMPHALINA ERICETORUM, GERRONEMA ERICETORUM Moss Omphalia DESCRIPTION: H '1.-2 in (l-S em). o /.,',. in (0.7-2 em), cap. SOOIl becormng funnel-shaped in the center, undulating Of margin; !oUrface stJialed to the cente!' or WIth darker bands over the gills. White-beige, to srI'( IAI Ff.ATURES Thi, is one of Ihf COmmOnH! fungi in tbf no"ht m htmisphtrt . It lives in mon, in .ymbiotis with an alga. pale ocher Of re11owbI'own in coo. Gills decuutm. widely spaced and thick, but thin ning toward the edge of the cap, oeam to pale yellow. 511pe thin and short ('I, to 11. in (1 10] em)), pale blown, darker at the lop. Flesh thin and pale, and flaVOfI6s. HASITAT: in coldel' regions. especially in the mountains, on damp. clCidic soil, heathland and beside bogs. Summer through fall. Common aod widespread. PSEUDOCLITOCYBE CYATHIFORMIS Cup-shaped Clitcx:ybe DESCRIPTION: H: 2%-47\ in (7-12 an), (I : 11'-27\ in (37 em). Cap cup-shaped, with small limbo and inrolled margin, darK brown, almost black when wet, becoming much paler as il dries. Gills de<:urreot and forked, with crenelated edges. white turning pale grayish-beige .. Very long STipe thickening toward the base, brown ar.d striated with paler !jmils. Base felted with white fibers. Flesh thin and spongy; pleas- ant odor and mild flavor. HABITAT: grassy paths, ground or on rotten tree slumps. late fall. Common. \ ""-'''. 51riilrtd y';rh Mwilish plori/5. _ _ inS(rr(a i'llll'tin kmg OIl'S The PscudodilOCYbcs differ from CliuxYMI due 10 Ihtir forlccd gills. THE TRICHOLOMATAlES ...ill... '" CLITOCYBE CANDICANS White Clitocybe DESCRIPTION: H: 1 '/,-1 /' in (H em), 0:'/.- 1',. in (23 em), Cap convex theJ'l flattening and slightly depressed, pure v.t'iite, later dirty v.tlite or SIXll ' red with ochef or brO'Ml. Margin infoUed for a Ioog time. 'Mlite gills crowded and slightly decurrent lNhile stipe elastic, often bffil. cr/II' !!fed in while flakes on the lW' third. Flesh th4n and wIlile; pleasant odor and mild flavor. HA8ITAT: lawns, grassy clearings, undef deciduous trees or in copses. Summer through fall. Fairly common. CLITOCYBE CERRUSSATA HOII!), Clitocybe DESCRIPTION: H: 24 ill (5 10 em), 0: l /d'1. In (3-8 em). Cap (OIM!K then "anening. eventually slightly depressed, margin imol led for a 1009 time. Silky surface with a whi le COOlir.g liu IloarfrOSI, dispersing with \0 reveal a pinkish 01' ocher ground. ClOwded, slightly decurrent, white or cream gillS. Stipe while, ohen tuNed. solid then holIaN, wider al the ba!.e which is (overed with a while down which holds the leaf hl- lef around the base. Flesh blanche . slightly floury odor, mild flavor. HABITAT: coniferous forests from summer through early fall. Fairly (ommon. SPH. IAL FEATURI S I'II,'IIfl,lIIilll is simibr in ever')' rupcCl , but groW$ unoo dccidllOUI IrttS, and hilS been c1usificd as a spedts, [, is cIlngcrwf. THE TRICHOLOMATAlES -ill.. '" CUTOCYBE DEALBATA Ivory Mushroom DESCRIPTI ON: H:, '/.-2f in (3-6 on), 0: '1.-2 III (2-5 on). Cap COI1Yel, soon Oatleflif"IQ. and evt'Il be<oming sHghtly depressed. margin inrolled. White, matte and silky, (eN- eled in a cootWlg like hoof frost, marked III places With beige or pale brown, !>haded with pink, Gills crowded, slightly dKurfeflt, whitish lhefl reddentng Stipe Dilen slightly bent at the base emd elastic. whitish or beige. flesh thin and while, slightly floury odor, mild navar. HABITAT: in Uoops or rings in paStures. on lawns. beside hedgerows. and on playing- fields. Stirnmel' dvoogh fall. Common. SPEC IAL FEATIJRI S Tht while 5pc'rirs of are very bard (0 ttll_p.o."_ ril"lIloS1l is more distinctive, in tbt it is 1m whitt , talItr, and bas no odor of Hour. CLITOCYBE VIBECINA Striated Ag"ric DESCRIPTION: H:2-l/. in (58 em), O: , ',. 2'/, in (36 em). Cap convex with Inrolled mal'gtn, slightly stri aled when mature; smooth, gray-brown v.tIen wet, discoloring \0 pale gray as it dries, star\Ul9 in the cemer, Gills slightly decurrenl, pale gray or brO'Ml. Stipe soIKl then hollow, CLITOCYBE GIBBA Funnel-shaped Clitocybe DESCRIPTION: H:24 In (5-10 eml. 13:11,- 4 in (4 10 em), Umbonate cap with illlolled margin. then flay. WIth lorqtudinaI....n.te ~ I r i . , while 001- tony fibers at the base. Flesh thin, gay to brown. lainl fIcuy or rancid ~ mild ftayor, HABITAT: o:nferous,y(\ mixed Iorem. from mid-faH tIYOJgh ~ winter. FairlycO!M\Oll . funnel -shaped in !he ceIlter with faintly 5111 - aled margin, becoming more or less sinuous. May retain slight umbo. Cream- ... HE TRICHOlOMATALES ...ill.... '" colored, beige or pale White. crowded gills, very decurrent. Stipe fairly CLITOCYBE DECEMBRIS DESCRIPTI ON: H:I "rl/. In (4-8 em), 0:1 ',.g in (3-6cm). Cap convex, with an umbili- cus in the center, sometimes becoming funnel-shaped. Graybrown when wet, beige to pale brown during dry spells. but very often with a darker patch in the center. Gills more or less decurrent, yellow-gray or pale brown. Stipe twisted and rigid, paler, with while fibrils. turning dalker gray a( (he base. fleih thm and whitiih; faim odor, mild "avOf. thin, lull\hen hollow, whitish Of pale russet, the base is surrounded by leaf litter felted together With a fl uffy white mycelium. Thin, white fiesh, faint but pleasant odor, mild fla\l(lr. HABITAT: In troops in deciduous and conif- erous in lowland or al altitude. Sum- mel through fall. Very common. Qu.iIC good 10 eal , as long as the librou, stem is discarded. HABITAT: deciduous or coniferous woods. from fall through winter. Very common. CLiTOCYBE CLAVIPES Club- footed Agaric DESCRIPTION: H:2'ir4 in (610 em), 0: 1'1, 2',. in (47 em). Cap convex then flattened, with a slighl umbo, be<:omir19 funnelshaped in older specimens. gray-brown with a darker center and paler at the margin. Gills decurrent. widely spaced, {[earn or palE' y(!lIow. Stipe swollef1 al the base, twice as thid as at the lOp, ocher \0 brown, striated. Flesh spoogy. espe<ially at the center of the cap and base of the Stipe. Sirong odor and mild flavor. CLITOCYBE OOORA Aniseed Mushroom DESCRIPTION: H: 1'/,-4 in (4 10 em), 0 :1 '/ . 3'/. in (48 em), Cap convex allirst with an lnralle<! margin, ~ m l i m s umbonate, then flattening, with an undulating, slightly retracted margin. Mane blue-green in young spe<imens. turn- ing grayish-green or gray-brown in others. Gills very slightly decurrent, dirty wtllte, then gray green. Stipe whitish, fibri llose, then tak- iog on ttw cob of the cap, and with a white down around the base. Flesh white and solt, SHang aniseed odor and flavor. HABITAT: coniferous forests, on acid soil, in the plains or mountains. late summer and fall. Very com moo. HABITAT: in deciduous forests (mostly beech and birch) or under conifers (mainly spruce) from plains to mountains. Summer through fall . Fairly common. THE TRICHOLOMATALES ....ill... '" CLiTOCYBE NEBULARIS Clouded Agari c DESCRIPTION: H:2'1,6 in (7-1 5 cm), 3:3',.8 in (8 20 em). Cap convex then flattened may become depressed. with or with- out a small umbo and a margin which remains inrolled for a long time. Surface gray or gray-brown. dark at first. paler. (ov ered in a sort of cottony veil. Gills crowded. slightly decurrent, whi te to pale yel low. Stipe thick. soon becoming hollow with age. gray- ishwhite. covered in gray fibrils, base swollen. but hidden in leaf littef. White CLiTOCYBE GEOTROPA Monk's Head Agaric DESCRIPTION: H:4-IO in (10 ... 2S em), 3:2'1 ... 8 in (6-20 cm). Cap more Of less nat and umbonate, then becoming funnelshaped while retaining the central umbo. pinkishbeige Of fieshcoIOfed. Gills very decurrent cream or beige. Stipe thick and smooth, thickening from top to Good 10 UI when young; the flem is too fib""" and , haWd be disarded. mycelium accumulates leaf littef around the stipe. flesh white and soft, strong but In definable odor. flavor mild or slightly b4l1er. HABITAT: often grows in rings in decidu ous or coniferous forests. sometimes in parks. In fall and often late into the win- ter. Very common and widespread. TOXICITY A1rhough considtrHI the species should be rtj'd as it tJlI ause: smOld digestive problems. bouom, same COIOf as the cap. Flesh white, thick in center, thin at the edge of the cap: strong odor of bil1er almonds. mild flavor. HABITAT: in circles Of rows in well lit deciduous woods, clearil'l9s, wooded pastur(>$, in hilly Of moun- tair.ous country. on nonaddk Of lime- stone soil. Fall. Fairly common. LEPISTA INVERSA Inside Out Agaric DESCRIPTION: H:24 in (5 10 em), 0:1 'lr 4 in (4 \0 em). Cap rapidly becoming funnel-shaped, bul wi th a thin, HghUy inrolled margin. orange or reddi!.h, often sprinkled with brown patches as it ages. Gi!ls very crowded and decurrent. cream then orange. Shorl SPEnAI FFATURI S Sn-tnI species once IYd the bot.aniaI rwne Ltpisbt irn-, .uch as lM )YDow u/isM pn'/l and the dalttr ttd f/ata.u. wbidJ grows undn- duiduous ttm or in mimi woods. stipe 2 in (S em) maxi - mum), the same color as the cap, with a white downy base surrounded by leaf liner. HABITAT: in dense dumps in (oniferous wood in lowland and highland. Sommer through lale lall. Very frequent and widesp.-ead. LEPISTA PANAEOLUS, L. LUSCINA Cloudy Tricholoma DESCRIPTI ON: H:l 'I .. 2'I. in (4-7 em), 0: 1 '/.-4 in (3-10 em). Cap thick, convex, with a slight central depressioo. soon flanening and long retain- ing lhe inrolled margin; gray-beige, with small round, darker oily or waxy scal1ered at random Ot' in rings around the edge. Gills white then grayishpink. Stipe shOt' t, Good 10 Cil, wilh a spicy IhVOf whcn cookrd, bul oftcn wonnCilcn. 2 in (5 cm) maximum, dirty white. Flesh thick. whitish, smelling stlongly of flour, flavOt' mild bot not particularly pleasant. HABITAT: In small groups in mountain pas' tures. Fall. Fairly common. THE TRICHOLOMATALES LEPISTA NUDA Wood Slewi t DESCRIPTION: H:2'b-4'h in (6-12 em), 0:}-6 jn(Slsan), Cap thick and smooth, becoming depiessed in Ihe center, margin imolled for a long lime, blue-violet allil51, but may lose all trace of violet color with age, Gills crowded, amethyst cob', darker than Ihe cap. Stipe thick \0 4 in x '.4 10 I'A in (410 10 em x 1.5 to 3 em)), wider at the base, the same color as the gills. covered in fibrils. Flesh thick, friable, slightly fibrous in the stipe. paJe liJac; strong, fruity odor, smellmg slightly of aniseed and mild fi aVOf. HABITAT: in groups or drcles in deddu- ous woods (beech, chestnut, oak) or among conifers. from lale rail to early winter, but appearing earlier a1 altitude. Very common, but requiring low tempera- lures. The species grows alrrlO$\ throughout lilM- {oloud pes' - hi! the year, especially in spring and from lale !.Ummer. I D1BIlITY Vfry good 10 n l, bul rt quir birIy pro- longt'd cooking at tht Ba h is lovgh. Tht Wood 81rwil can 1K: tultiv.lt d. LEPISTA SOROIDA Lesser Blue-Foot DESCRIPTION: H:l "r 2'h In (46 em), 0: 1 /. l '/. in (J.7 em), Cap sI.gllt/y dep!'essed in the Ctfltef, With II !>ITIa1l umbo, tllln, slightly inrolled margin, dark bluish violet, darken- ing Wlttl age Pale lilac gills. Stipe no more than in (1 em) in diam- eter, the same (alar as the cap. HABITAT: meadO'NS. smoky places. conilet plarll<llians, gar- dens, avenues. lale summet' and fall. Uncommon. LEPISTA SAEVA, L. PERSONATA Bl cwil DESCRIPTION: H:2-4'h in (512 an), 0;3/.-6 in (81Scm). cap, bKOO'ling convex, then ftanened, coffee or betge color, smooth, matte su1i1Cl'. Stipe short .nI tf*:k. !tom '.10 10 1 /. If) (2 10 3 em) in diamet swollen at tht base. fillliliose. blue-violet. contrasting With the darker rob 01 the gills and cap. Flesh thick. white, or p!fIkiVl-be!ge; fainl bul pleasant 1Xbr, mild fiaVOf. HABITAT: in circles in meadows and parks, on rlf!leS10111! soil. from liite fall to early vMle!'. Fairly common II pIa(es. THE TRICHOLOMATALES ...ill... m ARMILLARIA MELLEA Honey Fungus DESCRIPTION: H:2'1.-8 in (720 em), 0 : 1 ',.-4 in (l-IQ (m). The cap is hemispherical and scaly at be<oming flattened and wavy with scales that ale widely separated or absent. The color is wry variable, honey- (olor or yellow-brown. The gills are white, slightly decurrent, with reddish spots. The stipe is long and smooth, except al Ihe whitish, striated tOp. It tlas a (ottOrlywhile ring. Strong. unpleasant
HABITAT: forms large lUtts on stumps or fallen branches of deciduous trees. espe- cially beech. Sometimes parasitizes living !lees. Fall. Very commoll. SPfClAL II ATlJRfS The Honey flmgus is a pMa sile which attacb living or trees, causiDg hem-rot . It pfOlNIptn by means of .unified blIck liWnmu which I1In bc-ne.1Ith the IwIo: of the InInU or branches. Thnc libmenu, which merely bIInehcs of mycr6um, look 6kt thin roots and for this they are caUed rhizomorphs or psruclorrhiu. I DlBIl.ITY!1 OXKITY The Honey Fungus is nOI nt ensMily tdiblt , older or unckrtooked spmmtnl Iuovt produced poisonings. for the ublt should be vcry )'OWl8 the fibrous Itml mUSI be di,- urdtd. Onpilt these prU41iution5, fOtm peopk CoIMO! digcst the Honey Fungul which is wickly rilCn in Wltm Europ:, IWy, and SjNin. ARMILLARIA OSTOYAE Darkening Armillaria DESCRIPTI ON; H:2'I.-6 in (7-15 em), 13: , ',,.4 in (4-10 em). Cap cooical or convex. then iI.lneoed and lKIdulating. The surface is ooYefed with dark brown scales. crowded in the Cl'I1tl'l,on a bra.vn or reddish-brown background. Margin Striated, paler than the rest of the cap. ard with more widely spaced scales. GiIs ....nil! or cream, bewniog spotled WlIh paldlK bnttIe. solid, beooming hoIow, ocher bot dart.er toward the base. SlrIated aIxwe the v.tUte ring edged.,..;m dart.er flakes. HABITAT: in tufts on tree-stumps 01 the roots of SjWCe or fro Summer and fal l. Common. CATATHELASMA VENTRICOSA Bulbous-stemmed Armillaria DESCRIPTI ON: H:2'J.6 III (7-15 an), 13:3'1. 6in(81Scm). ConV(!x cap dry and smooth, whitish or pale gray. Gills decurrent, whitish or pale brown. Thick stipe (1 \0 2 in (2.5 to 5 em)), deeply buried in the soil, while to yellowish- brown Wl lh a characlerisuc IbJble ring, the ont membranous, the upper one dOWlly. Flesh com pact, thick and white. HABITAT: isolated 01 in groups under (omlers. espe- dally fils, in North Amellca. late summer and lal l. Common. II)JBllITY Ouilr lood 10 lOll. A Jim&or species which it a1so t diblt is found in EIlfOpt', tht Impnial AnniIbN. (CtdllllKhmfNI i_ptn.lis. II is WJtT with iI dMktr up. THE TRICHOLOMATALES .lli.. us LACCARIA AMETHYSTEA Amet hyst Deceiver DESCRIPTION: H:H'/, in (5 12 em). 0:',._ 21, in (26 em). Cap convex then thin WIth an inrolled margin, then undulatlllg and sometimes slightly crenelated. often umbilICate in tile centef. Amethyst. turning 10 pale lilac, almost whi te or ochla- ceoos whef1 dry; Ille surface is maUe. granuw, or (OV- ered WIth fine scales toward the centl'f. The wide,deep vio let gills are thick and widely spaced, Inlefspersed Wl lh shofter gills. They all! spl'in- kled WIth white """" - SI' J (JAt 1'1 All rRl'S The deep amethyst violet color in young specimens !lab it easy 10 rOpliu the Amethyst DenNer growing on moss or 1uili", . The up is pod 10 ut but the 6broullinn Ihould be disankd. AI ont rime the Amnbyst I)c,(rivtt _ rntrtly cont.ickrtd to be I YWI)' of the Dtcrivtr (iAwI,u '-'(011"')" dOKIy rtlmd .penes. mature. The Slipe is long, thin, sinUOllS and fibrous. !he same color as the cap, often COOSISling of whitish fibrils and With lilac felling at the base. The thin, viOlet flesh is elastic in !he stipe, and has a mild odor and flavor which are not characteristIC. HABITAT: coni ferous or deciduous fOlests, on acid or limestooe soli, mainly in hilly or mountainous regions. from late !.Umtnef thfough lall. Very common. LACCARIA LACCATA Deceiver . DESCRIPTION: H;24 In (5 10 em), 13: '1.- 1'1, in (24 em) , Cap domed then convex and depressed In 1M cenlel'. The edge remains culVed downward fOf a long ume. Coo is russel, pinkl!oh. OIangt'. Of brownish-orange, paling whef1 dry or with aging. Surface mattf, smooth, or slightly grainy. Gills wide, pinkish-brown. Stipe thin and elastic, reddish-brown with white fibflls. Flesh whitish to brownish, depending on the degree of humid- ity. Odor faint and flavor mild. HABITAT: decid- uous or conifer ous forests and copses. Lale summer through lalL Common and widespfead . THE TRICHOLOMATAlES ..lli.... '" TRICHOLOMOPSIS DECORA El egant Tricholoma DESCRIPTION: H:l3',. in (58 em). 0:2-6 in (5-15 em). Bright yeHO'N or yellowher <ap Wlth fine gray-brown scales or fibrils. denser in the center. conical at first then (()IIYeX or flattened. The margin remaiflS inroUed for a klng lime. Gills bright yellow with while l'dges. Stipe long and thin, often I'Xce!ltrk or CUrvM, fibril- lose, the same color as the cap or paler. Flesh bright yellow, no panicular 000r Of flavor. HABITAT: singly ex f1 tufts, Ql conifell:os cr tree tnris mairIy n the root.fI- tans.l..:ue soowner !hn:lugllate laI.l/ncOrmlon. TRICHOLDMOPSIS RUT/LANS Pl ums and Custard DESCRI PTI ON: H:2'h-4'/, in (6- 12 em), 0:24'h in (512 em), Cap conical or domed, then flattened, velvety aod covered with fine. brick-red or purplish scales ()f1 a yellow background, hence the name. Gills crowded and egg yellow; stipe thrlening at the base, sometimes cuiWd, yeI. I' DIBIUTY Dtspitt irs name this fungvs is no! ronsid em! edibk in watrm Europe, though il is uttn in muin pam of tilSttm 1. !.IrIIIIt.l and T. fIRm_it! an: snWler fungi with rtddisb-brown 5C3Ies. km "" """ .. with red scales less dense than those on the cap. Pale yellow flesh, !.lightly bitter, or mild. HABITAT: in tufts on the rotten stumps of (pine trees) or on tile Hunks. From late summer through fall . Fairly common and """"'''''. TRICHOLOMA COLUMBETTA Dove-li ke Tri choJoma DESCRIPTION: H:3'1.-S in (813 em), 0:2-4 in (5-10 em). Cap convex or cOllical at first, soon flattening, then becoming more or less undulating, sometimes with a cen- tlal swelling. Ohen indined, and pure wllile in color, sometimes spoiled With tiny, red- dish-pink or blue-green mark!.. The center may be pale ocher, The silky and surface is covered in line radial fibrils and is slightly viscid when weI, ohen becoming covered in traces of soi\' Gills oowded and wIlile, toothed al the edges, Slipe sturdy, slightly spindle-shaped. full and firm, fibrillose. flesh firm and white, with an odor and laste of flour.
'. 4-, ' de<iduOllS woods, mainly under oaks. sometimes under conifers, on I'IOn-acidic or sandy soil. Summer through fall. Fairly common in places. ditl
I POTENTIAL CONFUSION " AMANI TA VIROSA Dwroymg Angel .. AMANITA VERNA Df.AlllY Spnng Amanita Df.ADIY " AMANITA PHALLOIDES While Dealh Cap Dt.AllIY " ENTOLOMA U VIDU/I ' livid EnIQ!Qm.I POISONOUS THE TRICHOLOMATALES ....ill.... '" TR/CHOLOMA ALBUM White Trichaloma DESCRIPTI ON: H:2'I,- 4 in (6-10 em), O:l/ r 2'l, in (4-6 (m). Cap domed Of conkal, then nanened, mane chalky white. wide and GIn be seen in V('f- tkal sedion 10 be of unequal width, wtllte then pale ocher. Stipe white, elongated and solid, slightly swollen at the base. Of tapefing. Flesh thin and white, with a faintly acrid odor and flavor. HABITAT: under de<:iduous trees, espe<ially birch, in acid soil. lale summer through fall. Common. SI'f.ClAL I'F.ATURFS The Off.white Tricholorna (frilbl1loma /1Stu,/oolbr",,) can mUSUft up to 6 in (15 ern) in dMeler. The margin is fluted. It is complclfly whitf, browning slightly 10 the touch and emiu a sirong and disagreeable odor. The navor is vcry acrid. It grows among oaks and hom- bum. TricblIJIfIIlIIlS(jnlll' has a beige or ocher cap and smdls pltas.a.ndy of f1ol,lr. TRICHOLOMA FULVUM Fawn T richoJoma DESCRI PTION: in (8-13 em), 0:2- 4 in (5-10 em), Cap conical or convex then flattened, umbona!e or slightly depressed, with an inrolled, striated or flul ed margin. Smooth, viscid in the young state or when wet red- dish-brown with a paler margin and yellow tints. Gills bfighl yellow becoming tinged SPECIAL FEATIJRES which tends to i ppcar uno:kr conifers, nor luve i RUled margin and the gill, ate ..... hitish spLuhtd wilh 1'\151. wilh dirty rust with age. Stipe of the same color as the cap, 01 yellower. Flesh whi te in the cap bUI cilaracteli51icaHy yellow in the stipe, smelling of flour and wi th a slightly biner 1aSle, HABITAT: In small groups of deciduous or mixed woods, especially under birch, on very damp, acidic soil. On lowland and highland. late summer through fall. Very common and widespread. THE TRICHOLOMATALES .lli.. '" TRICHOLOMA USTALE Bitter Tricholoma DESCRIPTION: H:2-4 in (510 em), 0:1" , 3'1. in (48 em). SPI.UAl FEATURES The Tawny Tricholoma (TrirhQloma us,,,lo;Jt.s) the Burnt Tri cha lama, bUl lhr cap is brighter russrl , and the twocolored stipe has two clear areas or color, while II the lOp and RISse! btlow. II exudes a strongly fl oury odor. Cap hemispherical or conical then or flattened, with an inroUed, sinuous margin, reddish-brown then paler at the margin. Gills white then spotted with red. Stipe white and larger at the base which turns brown with age. Pale colored flesh, darker at the base of the stipe; faintly floury odor and !.lightly bitter taste. HABITAT: decidllOus woods (bee<:h) on damp, flOn-addic soil. From late summer through fall. Fairly common. 1 TRICHOLOMA VACCINUM Brindle Trkholoma DESCRIPTION: H:2'1,..4 in (610 em), 0: l 'I.--l/. in (4-8 em). Cap domed 10 coni<al, then flattening to slightJy umbooate, (overed with reddish- brown, woolly Of filxillose, dense, crowded scall'S, thinning oul at the edge:againsl a pale ocher background; Margin woolly and slightly mrolle<!. Gills wide, toothed. cream then splashed with pink. Stipe hollow, laller than the diameter of the cap, swollen at the base whkh (an anain ',. in (2 em) in diam- eter, and the same color as the cap. flesh (hill and whitish, except at the base of the stipe where It is red<!ishbrown and under the cuticle w h n ~ it is pinkish. Rather unplea$ilnt floury smell, biuer flavor. HABITAT: under conifers, rarely under deciduous trees, mainly in the mountains. Fall. Common. THE TRICHOLOMATALES -11L '" TRICHOLOMA PORTENTOSUM Pretenti ous Tricholoma DESCRIPTION: H: 2'1,4'1: in (6-12 em), 0:24'/, in (5-11 em). Cap (onical or umbonate, then nat- telling. mouse-gray or slall'-(olored, shiny and very fibrill ose, with typical yellow I'lighlights, sometimes wilh violet Gills wide, white, or slightly yellowing. Stipe white, tinted lemon yellow in places. Flesh white, sometimes yellowing 00 the surface. Floury odor and fl avor. HABITAT: Conif- erous forests. espedally pine, In the low- lands af'ld mountains, but most frequent al al !lludes of 1,670 10 3,330 II (500 \0 1,000 m), more rarely under de<iduous trees; prefers sandy !iOil. Appears late. from mid-fall 10 early winter, and does nOI fear frost. Uneven distribution, very common in places. SPF.C1AL FFAnrRES In the in which this mushroom is abundant, it is sold 10 taoncrirs. There arc a number of varittiu of tht sptciu, one of which grows under deciduous trtC! and is larger. 1 TRICHOLOMA PARD/NUM, T. T/GR/NUM Tiger Tri choloma DESCRIPTION: H:2-6 in ~ - 1 ~ em), 0:2',(nin (618 ern). Cap domed then eonvel(. with a thick, ~ margin, covered in fine gray scales arranged in tigef-stripe pattefn, against a pale gray bad ground. Dinywtlite gills oowded and slnuate. Stipe can be as large as 1 ~ in (4 em) in diam eter at the ~ wtIite or reddening. Flesh thick with floury odor and mild navar. TOXICITY Poisonous, causing severe gll5lro- t ntcritis. POTFNTlAL CONFUSI ON .. TIUCUOLOJUA TERREUM Dirty Tricholom8 EDIBLE HABITAT: in groups in fir or beech woods, in the mountains on limestone soil. SUmmer through fall. Common in places. THE TRICHOLOMATALES , .. 'os TRICHOLOMA EQUESTRE Saddl e-shaped Tricholoma DESCRIPTION: H: in (7-10 em), 0:24 in (S10 em), Hemispherical Of conical cap, margin inrolled al first then flanening, with or withe'J\ an umbo. Surface vis- cid when red- dening in the center, covered in scales scattered with red or brown- ish ocher. Gills bright yellow. crowded, paler al lhe upper part Stipe solid, and bright yellow. firm, bright yellow, with mild floury odor and f1avOl. HABITAT: in groups in lowland or moun- lain deciduoos woods. Fall through early winter in southern regions. Fairly common. POTENTIAL CONFUSION II> TRICHOLOMA SULPHUREUM Sulfur Tndloloma II> MMNITA PHALLOIOES Death Cap DEADLY SPH IAI. fF.ATIJRES A species iI found in pine forests on sandy soil (upcdally along the SOUlh - Wl'!Ilcm Atlantic tour of Europe) whith some mycologist differentiate from Tri- (!wIomll E'1l1l.lrt. 11 i5 aII(d thc Golden (Tri(holom" "lIfll'lI m). ]t is largeT, the up !,ting up 10 6 in (15 em) in diamtttr and the stipe up 10 ] II in (3 em) widc, with a cap that is more golden or nddish. The stipe is paler )'cl- low and the nuh whitish. TRICHOLOMA SULPHUREUM Sulrur Tricholoma DESCRIPTI ON: H:2'l r 4'/, in (6-12 em), 13: 1/.4 in (310 em), Cap (onical 01 hemispherical, then depressed, sulfur yellow, sometimes slladed with Mset, with a depressed or slightly umbonate (enter. Sulfur yellow gills thick and widely spaced. Stipe thicker al the base, TRICHOLOMA TERREUM Dirty Tricholoma DESCRI PTI ON: H:l ,.4 in ()IO em), 0:1 'lrJl.ln (48 em). Cap (ooical at first then more or Jess ilanened with radial striations, fTlOlM-gray or gray- brO'Ml, often umbonate. Gilfs ve!Y wide, wnite, turning gray. Stipe short and thid. fibrous. or thmning al the baSl', solid then hollow, white or dirty white, flesh firm and thin, whitish, almost odorless, with a pleasant odor becoming biner with age. HABITAT: grows in large groups in coniferous woods (pine and SJ)'UCe), on limestone soil. Fall and even early winler in the south. Common in ""'" ",," striated with reddish fibfHs 00 a sulfur yel- low ground, bul ....nite al the base. FIe!.h thin, also yellow. wim a strOl'lg gaseous or 000r and unpleasant fIava. HA8ITAT; de<idllOUS or coniferoos woods. On fairly acidk soil.frOOl sea IeveIIQ mountains. Fall . Very commoo and widespread. rOTf.NTlAL CONFUSION .. TRICHOLOMA PARDlNUIIf TIger T ncholoma POISONOUS THE TRICHOLOMATALES
'" TRICHOLOMA VIRGA TUM Acri d Tricholoma DESCRIPTI ON: H:il.-4 in (7- 10 em), 0: 1'/,.3'/. in (48 em). SPECIAL FEATURES The: vtry simili\r Cray Tricholoma (fri- rh%mt! sciojdts), groW$ undcr deciduous trees. [I is distinguished mainly by its gills of which the edges arc spotted with black. Thr is thinner al the base, and all of the mushroom can b.ecomc tiRled pink. Cap conicallhen flattening and umbonate, or cinder-gray. with more or less visible grayish or black radiating fibrils or marKs, sometimes slightly scaly. Gills pale gray With crenelated edges. Stipe slightly bulbous at the base, whitish and fibrillose. white or pale gray with a faint odOf of radish or of earth and an auid or peppery flavor. HABITAT: under conifers or in mixed woods. Fall. Fairly common and widespread. TRICHOLOMA AESTUANS Burning Tricholoma DESCRIPTION: H:2-4 in (5-10 em), 0:,'113',. in (48 em), Cap conical or convex then umbonate, cov- ered in radial fibrils, bright sulfur Of lemon yellow, reddish-bfOwn in the center, with an almost white margin. Pale yellow gills with eroded edges. Stipe thickened at the base, bright yellow with reddish-brown I,bfjls. sometimes sp1ashed with dirty pink at Ihe base. Flesh Ihin and pale, thickening under Ihe umbo. Famt odor, biuer then acrid flavor .. TRICHOLOJUA EQUESTRE HABITAT: coniferous forests, especially Saddle T n(holoma EDI8LE spruce. in mountains or (ooler zooes of Ihe nonhero hemisphere. Uncommon. TRICHOLOMA ATROSQUAMOSUM 5<:aly Tricholoma DESCRIPTION: H:2',,-4 in (610 em), 0: , '1.-3'1. in (3-8 em). Cap ari:aI ex then flanened, often with a rentIallJl'lbo. coYeIed in c\af'K scales on a paIef Gills wkIe ard white with or SjXItIed tkd: edges. Stfle soIK:l (I hol- low, fiOO:lu5, pale 'Pi or with black scaies, and me<! fl white lll')Iium at !he base. Flesh 'l>'hjtish. mIkI flavor and spicy or peppel)' odor. THE TRICHOLOMATALES
'" HABI TAT: de<iduous Of conifelOUs woods, . on limestone soil, in the moun- tains. Fairly common. TRICHOLOMA SAPONACEUM Soap-scented Trichol oma DESCRIPTI ON: H:]".-6 in (815 em), 0: 2'1,-5 in (6-13 em). Cap then lIanened, fleshy, very variable, from gray through gray-green, whitish, brown, and yellowish, some- times covered in thin scales. Gills widely spaced and brad, white to yellow, sometimes spotted with red. Whitish 10 dark gray stipe, sometimes scaly and often shaded pink at the base. Flesh firm and white, reddening at the base of the stipe; slIong odor of soap. HABITAT: solitary or in colonies in decid- uous or coniferous woods, in lowland and highland. Summef through fall. (ommon and widespread. SPFCIAI FF.ATURFS Vtl)' variable mushroom taking on vari 0 115 forms, which differ ITom nch other mlinIy in the color of the sript or cap and the pr&enn or abstnce of scales. AU vmcticii a $uongly soapy odor. TRICHOLOMA PARDlNUJU Tiger T ntholomi! POISONOUS DESCRIPTION: H:I 'f, 2 In (4-5 em), 0:2 4 in (SIO em), Cap convex at first then slightly umbonate or Hat. sorneumes inegular, eveo capabie of l)e(omlng depressed. WIth a soon, inrolled margin SUrfCKe smooth, mouse gray to grayrs/lbrown, darker in the center, paling with age as as in dry weather MELANOLEUCA VERRUCIPES Warty.foolcd Mclnnolcuca MELANOLEUCA BREVIPES Melanoleuca Gills crowded, wide. Sinuate hut deo.JJlent along a narrow Strip, pale then grayish. Stipe shorter than the diameter of the cap, often With a thick btrlb at the bast'. of the same color as the cap btrt slriated with fibrils. flesh thin, fibrous In the stipe, pale btrt darkening toward the bast'; no odor, mild or slightly biller flavor HABITAT: forests, IawM. parks. SUmmer and fall. Fairly common. - - ' - : - -- -- , ":' ' .. Cap flattened, depressed, ueam or pale 'PI wl1h a dall:er cef\\ef. GIs light, some- trnes slitjltiy sIoprng Of deo.rI'ent, v.t.iush, thd:erung toward the base. whte. but OOIted With black Of brown flakes, excepl al the top. Flesh v.tule, odor and mild flavor. ',I ... , DESCRIPTION: H:2'!.-4 'I, in (7 12 em), 024 in (S 10 em). HABITAT: lawns, mead ows, and on bare gOllld, on tn::Ier decid uous trees or on bu'ied wood. Uocommon, THE TRICHOLOMATALES MELANOLEUCA COGNATA Distincti\le Melanolcuca DESCRIPTI ON: H:3 ',.-6 in (815 un), 0:24 in (510 em), Cap Ihen fla ttening, wilh a large umbo, yeliow-brOWfl, fawn ocher or copper color, Gills crowded, pale oeam or pinkish (f@am. Stipe thickened or slightly bul00u5 al Ihe base, than the cap. Flesh whitish; no particular odor or flaVOf, or smelli"9 and tasting of floor. HABITAT: wooded meadow$, edges of forests. Spring through fall. Fairly (ommon in the mountains, rarer in the plains. MELANOLEUCA MELALEUCA Black-and-white Mclanolcuca DESCRIPTION: H:2-4 in (510 em), 0:24 in (510 em). Cap CQ"I'IeX al firsl thef1 fianemrog and bec0m- ing slightly depressed in the center, with a cen tral umoo; gtay-brown v.t.eo damp, pale ochef in dry wea\hef, Vefy crowded white gills. con trasting IYith dark color of tOe cap. Stipe gay-broNn, with darker longitudinal striations. FieYl while inside the cap. datkelloward the base of the stipe. No special cdor a flavor. SPFClAl FEATURI.S Despite its (ommon name, this speOl.'S is not particularly easy 10 discinguish from similar spedes of MdurrlI/tIKIl. HABITAT: grassy woods, grass Yefgl'S. Lale summer through fall. Fairly common. LYOPHYLLUM CONNATUM Tufted Lyophyllum DESCRIPTION: H:2-4 'II in ~ - 1 2 em), 0:1 ".3'/. in (48 em), Cap SI rorrvex for a long time. then Rauen- iog. maue or silky ....tute surface, Tightly paded, white gills. [lining cream or pale yellow. S ~ thinoef al the ~ , the same color as !hi:' cap. Flesh wh!te. smelling slighttt 1My, mild fIa\oof. HABITAT: !1OWS II tufts. sometImeS illafge !1Ol4lS on IaYm5, II weIHit, rp<1 woods iWId road!.des. late SlIMlef and fall. Fairly com- mon in uplands. LYOPHYLLUM DECASTES. L. AGGREGATUM Gray,cllpped l.yophylJum DESCRIPTION: H:2-6 in (S15 em). 0:].6 in (5- 1 5 em). Cap (OIlV1!X !1Ien expandiAg, may be umbooate, UndUlating, smooth and shiny, gray or graybrown,lhefl palel 0fI the margin. striated with whitish fibfils. Gills crowded, dirty while. Stipe Is cylindiical, thickening or felracted at the base. The Il!sh is MIiC. white, thick in the tef1tl.'l', without a typiCal IIavof or odcw. HABITAT: grows in tufts in de<iduous woods, mamly confined to clearmgs. grass wrges, aVef1ues, and parks. Fall. Common in places and widespread. THE TRICHOLOMATALES ...ill... '" CALOCYBE GAMBOSA SI George" Mushroom DESCRIPTI ON: H:2-4 in (5-10 em), 0:1 'Ir 4'/, In (4-12 em), Cap remaining hemispherical lor a long lime, with an imolled margin, becomir.g irregular and lumpy. very fleshy, with a SUI- face as smooth and velvety as chamois lealhef, Clearny while, sometimes tinted with rust. Vtfy crowded, emalginale. very narrow gills. Stipe thkl:., 'b to I'/. in (I 10] em) in diame- ter. lull, the same (ob as rOll Nll AI ( O NI US ION ... ENTOLOMA UVIDUM Uvid EmoJoma POlSONOUS .. INOCYBE PATOUILLARDII Rcd-mrnu'l& lnocybc POISONOUS I'DlBIlITV I nd sood-Some people (OMider it to be the IH:st edible mushroom, but for othen the Jtrong flolIl')' Ibvor i5 nO!
the cap. Flesh while and firm, very !hide at the center 01 the cap; very strong odof and f\avo! of flour. HABITAT: 9fows in groups or aIdes in meadows and grassy _b.". hedgerows. especially under hawthom and blackthom, and in parks. Favoo non-acidic and limestone soil. Spfing, especially April and May. someumes thtoogh to early !.Um- mel'. Uncommon in some places. frequent in others, especially on high ground. l'tryr,o"l'IlrJ M'''1t gills CALOCYBE CARNEA J' lcsh-colorcd Mushroom DESCRIPTION: H: l '/..-2'/, in (3-6 em), 0:'1._ 1 'I, in (24 em). Cap nol very fleshy, convex then flattened, with an imolled margin, f\eYI.pink. more Of less brown in the center. Gills white, not aowded. Stipe the same colOI' as the cap. Flesh white, faint odor aod mild naYOl'. HABITAT: in small groups in meadows. 00 lawns. in parks, and beside forest paths. fall. Uncommon. NYCTAUS ASTEROPHORA. ASTEROPHORA LYCOPEROOIDES Sl8r. bclI ring Nyctali s DESCRIPTION: H: '/, I'/. in (1 -3 em), O:'lr 1 'I. in (1-] cm). 6Iobo!.e. white cap 1umlO9 chamois color due to the acrumuiallOll of a thICk layer of spotl'5. whICh are deposited 00 the cap when the fungus matufei. Gills white. ,educed 10 widely !opaC.ed thick folds. !oOI'Ilel imes absent. Stipe shcwt and wiHf. white. Flesh thid:. and whitish. rancid odor. HABITAT: often in groups or tufts growing on Blad:efling Russula (Russula nKJn- cans) and IllOfI! rarely on othef RuS!>ulas, which it causes to t Summer and I, especially after heavy rain. Fairly THE TRICHOlOMATALES NYCTALIS PARASITICA Parasitic Nyctalis DESCRIPTION: 0:'11-1 '/. in (1 -3 em). Cap hemispherical or conkallhen flattened and umbonate; surface silky, smooth or stri ated, dirty while, turning g.ay. Gills thld and widely spaced, pale gray. Stipe thin and white, about 'I. to I'/, in (2 to 4 em) long. flesh thin, whitish; strong, rather unpleasant ocb. mild flavor. HABITAT: parasitiZes certain rowng speci- mens 01 Russula. sIKh as the Slackening Russula, sometimes found on Milk Caps. Fall . Uncommon. OUDEMANSIELLA MUCIDA J'orce!ain Mushroom DESCRIPTION: H:l 't.4 in (3-10 on). 0: , ',.-] '{. in (J-B em), Cap hemispherical then convex, brilliant whill' or slighlly russel with age. especially in the center, (overed with a \hkk mucus. Gills widely spaced, wide, and white. Stipe !hid or bulbous taward the base, stllilled above the ring, smooth and viscid below. The W{!II-developed ring is si tuated quite high on the Stipe Flesh thin and white, with a pleasant odor and IlaYCll'. HABITAT; in groups or dumps on recent wour.ds in the tlllnks and branches of beech trees. from lale Stlmmer through late fall. Very common.
os, OUDEMANSIELLA RADICATA Rooting Shank DESCRIPTION: H:48 in (10-20 an), 0:1'b- 4 in (4-10 em). Cap convex but soon Ildtlenll19. with a cen- tral umbo; Viscid, smooth then very 'Min- 1:100, ocher, russet, 01 hazelnut. Gills wide and wnll!!. StJpI! while al the top, the same color as the cap toward the bottom, not viS- cid, but coriaceoos and very long, often IWisted. thickening at the base aod extended downward by a rhi- lomorph run' ning deep into tile soil. Flesh soft, thin, and while; faint odor, mild or slightly biller flavor. HABITAT: on Uet! UOOU and stumps of de<idoous trees. especially beech. thlOugh fall. Common and WIdespread. CYSTODERMA AMIANTHINUM Saffron Parasol DESCRIPTION: H: 1 '1, -Z'1. In (3-7 em). 0: '{. 1 'I, in (24 em), Cap coricaI then tlanl!lW'lg and 1.IT1bonate. .,eI- km-orange ttvoucjllawn, garUose a poN- defy, 'MilkIed in the Ce!ltel, with a ffirqed. vel W'ty margn Gil!. otJMIed and ...me. oMVte then pale yellow. Stipe hollow, smooth al the top. else- where (CM!red in !ions or red tlakes, up 10 , t.. . ...... -.-H, . --- ''':,- . 'r ... " the scaly ring v.t1idl is often poI)tj defined. Flesh thin, or3rlQeyellow; un pleasant ocb. mild . -' .. / ..... i ..,. "JiI' t"... ,.. ... -.,1- r! '/I}' '" "., ' . (",' . . " t - - . .' .:". ......... : : '. ,. ." '" . ' /. . t., 'J . " r , .'
" -. HABITAT: on the gOllld in deOOJous 01 memus woods. on rathe! aci!ic soil. late summer and fall. Common . THE TRICHOLOMATALES FLAMMUUNA VELUTIPES Velvet Shank I III 811 ITY Quile good to til, bUI the lIe$h is gelati. nous Of Tht fibroUl .ript should disankd, .. dlould the dimy (Uricit-. DESCRIPTION: H:rh4 in (410 em), 0:1'1 ... 4 in (3- 10 em). Cap convex then flauened and be<oming undulating, orange 10 reddish. often red- dish-orange on the margin and reddish 10 reddish-brown in the center, smooth, mdd when Gills white aoo wide, then pale orange-yellow, dotted wilh rust as the fungus ages. Stlpr often curved. soon becoming hollow, coriaceous, yellow .11 first then IUrning brown 01 black from the bottom, and covered in the dlaracter- istic: thick, coal. Flesh soft and while, pleasant odor and mild flavor, HABITAT: growing in (lumps. occa- sionally alone, on tree Slumps. dead wood, wounds in living llees. or on the roots of deciduous trees. as well as on broom. late fall and winter, frosHMtant. Common. SPI (IAI FFATIJRFS 10 Japa.o, the Vdnt Shank is cuJtiVltrd on ""\r. The JlIp;tnC1lC prodllCC KVtl'lll tent of thOUJallds of tOilS of it a yur. The mushroom is nOI popuW in !he Wnl, bul i, O(usioD.llly uten in Ullelll Europe. MARASMIUS ALUACEUS Marasmius DESCRIPTION: H:4-6 in (10- 15 em), 0:'1 .. 1'" in (24 an). Cap (Jearn th"ough bra.vn. somebmeS fawn ttvOlJ!il ocher, remaining COI'lVeX for a long tlllll!. Matgln has long stnatlOnS when weI. Gills wtlite. Stipe very long (up to 8 in (20 em)) and slender, thkkening at the base, hoIkIw but IIgk!, brownish-black, palei' at the top. and felted with rnycehlXll .11 the base, often rooting deep into the soil. Strong $melt and garlic: flavor. MARASMIUS ANDROSACEUS Horsehair Mushroom DESCRIPTION: H: 1 1.-2'/, in (3-6 em), 0: 'I.- '/rlo (0,5-1 em). TIny cap, soon flattening, se<:11Ot1ed like a HABITAT: solitary, on lea-m and rotting litter in beh woods. on hmeslOOl! SooImef through fall. Uncommon. parachute, sometimes depressed In Ihe cen- let", reddish-pink or blown. Gills very widely spaced, the same color as the cap. Thread- like slem, very rigid, blackish and shmy, like hcwsehair. Very ttlin, odorless fleVl, and mild n""" HABITAT: In groups on plant debris on the ground, especially prne-needles, leaves, 0/ twigs. Spring through fall. Fairly common, Sf'1 (I AI FfATl JRI' Muy tpkt of IfOW on woody ckbm, but to thtir lIUlI sile, they often THE TRICHOLOMATALES ..ill.. '" MARASMIUS OREADES fairy Ring Champignon DESCRIPTION: H;1',.-4 in (310 em), 0: )/..2'1. in (2-7 em). Cap cookal or campanulatl' at first. then flal- tening OUt, becoming undulating and slightly striated on the margin; center always raised into a large umbo. when waterlogged. creamy while when dry. Gills wide, wide apart and separating furthef as the cap expands. (ream or pale grayish- whi te, on a color similar to that of the cap. Stipe thin, fi brous, aJ'ld firm but remark- ably elastic, IDlOOlh, sometimes twisted, becoming hollow with age, pale at the lop and reddish toward the bilse, deeply anchored in the soil. FJeYl thick. in the cen- ler, whitish; odor reminisceot of bitter almoods. mild flavor. HABITAT: meadows, pas- tures, Iavms, roadsides, golf courses and any grassy plot ; often forms circles or lines, on any type of soil. Spring through fall . Very common. good to Cil; coracOUS stipe: should bt disankd. rOTi NTiAI (ONFUSION .. A-fARASMIUS COU /NUS Hill Marasmius POISONOUS .. CLITOCYBI: DEALBATA, C. Rl VULOSA What Chtocybe speciu POISONOUS SPf( IAI FFATURl'S stipe: of the Fairy Ring Mushroom is txtTaordinary and an bt wound f1)IUId several timtS arQl,lnd itstlf with- out it breaking. MARASMIUS RAMEALIS Branch.gilled Fungus DESCRIPTION: H:", I ',. in (1 3 em), e: ',.\,\, in (0051.5 em), Cap eOl1vex then flallened, shghtly wllnkled, (learn through pinkishwhite, Of redder. Gills of the same color. Stipe short, no longer Ihan 1',. in (3 em) aoo '" m (1 em) wide, elastrc, wtlnish at the top, reddish and spot led WIth white fibers al the base. Flesh white, odorless and navorifss. HABITAT: in I.1rge groups, on branches and dead twigs and stems of bramble bushes. Summer through lall. Common. MARASMtuS ROTULA Liule Wheel Fungus DESCRIPTION: H: 1 '1. 2 III (3 5 em). 0:/0-'1. In (OB I.Scm). Of convex cap, m Ihe IOfm of a parachute. typiCally fur rowed, wllh a dentate margin, always With a well-marked central depression. Ivory, some- times ocher or gray Gills cream, Wide apart. not allached 10 Ihe Sllpe oot to a membrane erKirciing the top of the stipe. Stipe "} , 'r
" , : .. ' , ' .,. " . ' ...... ', '\:' " .. ' ;' '. .. ' .. "." \' ., . long and very slender. IIgid. black or dark brown. whitish al the top. Flesh white in the cap. brown in the Sllpe. WIth a laml cxb" and 1Iavor. HABITAT: in dense clumps 011 fallen twigs and branches of deddu ous trees. late spring through to early winter. Very common. THE TRICHOLOMATALES '" '" CRINIPELLIS sriPITARIUS Hairy Marasmius DESCRIPTI ON: H: ',.- l / .. in (24 em), 0: '/,.1/. in (1-2 em). Cap o n ~ e x or slightly depressed, sometimes with a liny umbo, CMred in reddishbrown silKy hairs on a pale background. Gills pale. The stipe is shon, sometimes wider al the lOp. rigid, undulating. often furrowW. russet and covered in tiny, stiff hair!>. HABITAT: grows on dry twigs. thatch, poor STROBIWRUS ESCULENTUS Edibl e Tough-shank DESCRIPTION: H: ",-2 in (25 em), 0: '/. 1/. in (0.53 em). Cap convex then f1anening. ocher or reddish- brown viscid, sometimes slighllycreased. Gills while, turning gray, fairly crowded. Stipe thin, CQfiaceous. and smooth, often undulating, orange or brown, paler toward the top. with white filaments althe base. Flesh while, thin, rather CoriiKOOIJS. Faint 000f, fungal navor. FDiBILlTY Dupitt its nlmt, thil Tough.shanlc is not partkuJarly talty, and it if tJltrt mtly smaU. Its inltrest IitS in the bct that it appean at a time of yur whtn olhtr mushrooms irc raf t . grassland and grassy moors, in summer through fall. Fairly common and widespread. HABITAT: in groups. on spruce cones that have fallen Of are buried beneath moss, sometimes on fir cones. From ~ t e wimet through early spring. Fairly common. DESCRIPTION: H: '/.-2'h in (2-6 em). 0'1.- 1 in (1 -25 em). Cap smooth, reddish brown or date-brown. BAEOSPORA MYOSURA Mouse-tail Tough.shank DESCRIPTION : H:'/. I'I, in (24 an). 0:'lr 1'/. in (I ] an). Cap then SOO'IeIimes with small lITlbo; 5nIIXlth. odler. brown or hazelnut, paler at the margin. Gills very STROBILURUS TENACELLUS Tenacious Tough-shank with paler or redder center. Gills white, (on trasting with darker (olor of the cap. Stipe smooth, rooting, white or yellow at first, then taking on the color of the cap from the base, passing through orange brown. Flesh white and very thin; faint odor and binet flavor, HABI TAT: on Scots pine cones. which maybe buried in the soil. sometimes on other cones. Spring. Fairly common. aowded, white or beicJ.'. Stipe the (II:llI' cola as the cap. doMri. erdirg fl a Ioog rhCzornorjjl covered fl ....t1ite which digs deep fl to the sOOstrale. FIeh thin arxl beige; fungal oeD; rrikl RaYor. HABrTAT: on cones, fallen on the or buried. or on their detached scales, in forl!51S and parks. From fall tlYOO'Jl early winter. Pr/:t)a/)/y conmon but often urnoticed. SP) CIA) FFATURFS Many spKifl grow on pine conn. Thest incll.ldc the SIrO"i/u",s and some specits of Myccna and Collybia. They can be idcnti6ed mainly through their microscopic char.llclcristic:s. THE TRICHOLOMATALES ....ill... '" MICROMPHALE PERFORANS Perforating Marasmius DESCRIPTION: H:' ... 1'I. in (1.s-l em), 0: '1.";10 (0.5- 1.5 em), Cap convex to Aattened. beige to pinki91- brown, with a furrowed margin and center l'JlO(e or less depressed. \0 pinkish brown. Stipe barely '1,," in (1 mm) in diameter, and blad:ish, except allhe lop. where it paler. The flesh has a fetid odor. HABITAT: olte!1 in dense colonies on spruce or fll' needles. SUmmer through fall. Common. XEROMPHALINA CAMPANELLA Bell Omphalia DESCRIPTION: H: 'I.-2 in (2-5 em), r:n,.',. in (1-2 em). Cap umbilical from the start, With inClJrved margin, smooth, !>lIghtly striated up to the umbilicus, orange to reddish-brown. Gills bowed ar.d very de<.urrenl, widely spaced and with some interveinil19. pale yel low to ochraceous orange. Stipe (Of I aceous, yellO'Nish-orange al the top, reddish-brown toward the base wilh suff, fawn hairs. f lesh thin and coria- Ceo\IS, reddish-brown, odorless. mild flavor turning slightly billet HABITAT: in dense clusters, some- times attached at the base of the stipe. mainly on the rotten S\llmps and branches of conifers, on high grour\d. Spring through fall. Fairly common \0 rare. MEGACOLlYBIA PLATYPHYLLA Shredded Tough.shank DESCRIPTION: H:il.-S In (7- 13 em), 0:24 in (510 em). Cap hemispherical Of campanulale al first, often umbonate, soon Hattenirrg, sometimes depressed in the center, gray or gray-brovm covered in dart-gray radial fibrils; when older ar.d in dry the surface cracks and showing the while fiesh underneath. Gills very wide, white then pale ocher. Sl ipe thidening toward the COLLYBIA BUTYRACEA Buttery Tough-shank DESCRIPTION: H:2 4 in (5 10 em). 0: 1'1,- 3'1, In (48 em). Cap domed then with a large umbo, base, very fibrous. slightly pater Ihan the cap, extended at the base by very long. thiel:, brittle, wtlitish, cottony mycelial cords. Flesh brillle, while and (oriaceous, mild or slightly biat! flavor. HABITAT: on halfburied pial'll maller, near deciduous or stumps. Spring Ihroll9h fall. Very common. reddish brown or graying depending OIl the be<oming markedly paler when dry, margin often paler than the rest of the cap, THE TRICHOLOMATALES and with a darker umbo; typically smooth surface wnich feels greasy 01' buttery 10 the [ollCh. Gills crowded and white. Stipe gradu- ally expanding toward Ihe base inl0 a spongy, very fibrous bulb, which be<omes hollow and is similar in cOklr \0 the cap. Pleasant odor and mild flavor. HABITAT: deciduous Of coniferous fOfests on iKidic soil. From fall lhrough early winter. Very common and wide*read. COLLYBIA CONFLUENS Clustered Tough-shank DESCRIPTION: H:2 '1 .. 4 in (6 10 em), 0:",-1 '/, in (2-4 em), Cap convex then flattening, whitish, yellow- ish Of gray.beige. Gills very crO'Nded, Ihe !.arne color as the cap. Stipe long and thin, the same color as Ihe cap at first, com- pressed, sometimes with a (entlal furrow along its length., becoming darker and red- dish-bI'own, and covered with a fir.e whitish down. Flesh cOI'iaceous arid thin; pleasant odor and flavor. HABITAT: in dense tufts on pine-needles OJ leaves. often in lines or rings. on acidic soil. tate summer and fall. Common. -"'- '" Iii,,,, M'hi,t, wend .lirhnm __ _ COLLYBIA DRYDPHILA Oak Tough-shank DESCRIPTION: H: 1 '11" 2'/. in (4- 7 em), 0:1 '/. 2 in (3 5 em). Cap convex then itauening and sinuous, smooth, yellow- bfown 10 russet, WIth a pale, margin and faint striations. turning almost white in dry weather. Gills crowded and white. Stipe hollow. very fibrous. same color as the cap or orange-brown. paler toward the top. hairy base embedded in the leaf liUer. Faint odor, mild fiavor. COLLYBIA DISTDRTA Twi sted Tough-shank DESCRIPTION: H:2'lr 4'1, in (6-12 em), 0: 1 '1.-3'1. in (4-8 em). Cap conical or campanulale, then convex and umbonate, smooth. reddish-brown, mar- gin inrolled for a long time, becOO1ing wy undulating. Gills very crowded. white. redden- ing. Stipe oMlite. splashed 'Nith rust, co...ered in Iongitudiroal striations in a broad spiral pallern, giving a twisting odor ard mild flavor. HABITAT: in small groups in coniferous woods. somet imes among de<H:luous trees. on the ground or on rotten buried branches In summer and fall. Fairly common. HABITAT: often In large groups on the forest floor amid deciduous or conif- erous \lees. Spring through early winter. Very common. THE TRICHOLOMATAlES .l!O. 167 COLLYBIA FUSIPES Spindle-shank DE5CRIPTlON: H:2't.-7 III (718 em), 0: 1 'b- l/. 11 (4-8 em). Cap convex, then flallenmg. and rounded, sometimes WIth a large umbo; smooth, reddish brown wnh darker spiam of color, tumlllg pal@!' wllh age. Gills widely spaced, whiush then reddefling. Slip! spin- dle-shaped, f1auened and deeply fUllOwed, very (Ofiaceous and eiaslK, the same color TOXI ( ITY Fonntrly cOlUickrcd tdibk when young, this mushroom Iw r r ~ aousc:d Slom- Kh upsoet:s, pnhllps dut 10 tilt tOIIlUlDp- rion of spimml WI ww: 100 old. The symptoms QII pnsiM for 5t'Ycnl weeks. as the cap but paler <lIthe top; all the stipes in a single tuft ale fused together into a SOft of bIaOOsh-brown rhi lOITIOfph whidl is buried deep In the sub- strate. flesh coriac:eoos and wtlrlish, odof ~ s Of slightly randel, mild flavor. HABITAT: in dense tults on tree-trunh Of slumps 01 deciduous t r ~ especially oak and beech. SuR'UTlef through fall. Commoo. COLLYB/A KUEHNER/ANA Red-stemmed Tough-shank DESCRIPTI ON: H: 11, 2'1. in (4-7 em). 0: '1.- 2 in (2-5 em). Cap convex thef1 flattemng. often with an undulating margin; beige to pale fUS5e1. When !he cap is damp, the gills Ylow through the uansparefll culide, which minkles In dry weatller. Gills whitish Of beige. Oark red slipe paler at the top. very thin and 1009, cylir.drical, !>OfJletimes Ihickel' at the top, compressed, and may have a longitudinal furrow. Hairy al the base. Pleasant odor. HABITAT: Singly or in dumps on the rOiling slumps and buried branches 01 de<idUOl.l5 trees. Fall. fairly (ommon. COLLYB/A MACULATA SpoIled Tough-shank DESCRIPTION: H:2'/.-S',; in (7 14 em). 0:1'/,4 in (4-10cm). Cap al first then CO/lW!X, smooth and completely matte white al first but soon spotted with rust-red patches. Gills Ihm and very oowded, o!'am, finely !>inuale. Stipe long. very tough and fibrous. l'I'oOI'e or 165 rootmg, c/I!amy whlle lik! the cap, but may be spotted WIth Mlloward the base. fleh while, thid::: in the (ente!', coriac:eous.. and bille!'-tasting afte!' a lew seconds. HABITAT: In groups or wfts.. lings or lines in cOf1llefOus forests.. mainly pines., or in mixed forem on ac:id soil. late wmmer Ihlough fall. Fairly (ommon. THE TRICHOLOMATALES .J!!. 169 COLLYBIA PERONATA Wood woolly. foot DESCRIPTI ON: H:2 n. in (5-8 em), 0: 1'/.-2'/' in (36 em). Cap convex then flattening , with a small umbo ....tlich be<omes wrinkled with age, ocher, fawn, Of brown. Gills widely spaced, yellowish at firsl,lheo cin namon. Stipe thin, bul thickening laward the base, covered in long whitish or yellow hairs over one third of the lower part Flesh coriaceous: odor 01 MYCENA EPIPTERYGIA Fern Mycena DESCRIPTION: H:l 'fr-J't. in (48 em), 0: '''- ',. in (12 em). Cap conical Of striated almost to the center, with a denticulate margin. ocher or cream, (overed with a detachable gelati nous layer. Gills pale in color, Stipe long and slendef, 'A. in (2 mm) wide at most, viscid, bright yellow at the lop. The base is some limes dis<olored or reddish. Flesh very thin, yellowish, with faint odOf and mild flavor. HABITAT: in on moss or leaves in deciduous or coniferous forests, where the vinegar when rubbed, very peppery HiM)(, which bums the longue in a few seconds. HABITAT: in smallgfOUps on damp leafliller in deciduous woods, espe<i.llly beedl, or conifers. From lale summer thlOUJh fall. Very soil is acidic and damp. Summer through fall. Common and wide5pfead. dClluhabk ,;S(kl "",Itt fill' MYCENA CROCATA Orange Milk Mycena DESCRIPTION: H:2'I.4/. in (711 on), 0: "1 1'1. in (I.] em), Cap cooi<al then convex al'ld umbonate. stri ated over the whole diameter, wtlitish or grayish, spotted with orange. Gills the same color. Stipe brownish-orange, paler or yellow at the top, covered in white or yellowish Iii- aments at the base. Flesh thin, safflon ~ low, exuding af1 orange-colored mill: when stem or cap are broken. Odor- less WIth a mild flavor, HABITAT: 00 lea/-litter espe clally of bee<h. Fairly certain places. THE TRICHOLOMATAlES MYCENA SANGUINOLENT A Red-milk Mycena DESCRIPTION: H:2-3'/. il (58 Olll 0: '11 in (1 an), Cap a::nicaI, sometrnes flattenng will a CI.'fItraI ~ r ~ cr pIlkish.tmNn, darker i1 tI'e <entel; striated Of ~ ~ the gis sro.v. ing tIYou;t1 the cap. Gills wk:IeIy spaced. pale with pale 1:K0Ml eO;Jes. Stipe YeIY kJlg and very slendel;the same cOO or <:\.:ri:er th<rl the cap. IMlen In*en a little pale red or pill:; mill: is exuded. Flesh very thin and reddish, laint ocb' and mikI fIao..ty, HABITAT: Ql nm; a ~ in decid.oos cr corilerous forests. SlmneI' tlYOltjI Iall. Very """"". MYCENA HAEMATOPUS ISl eeding Mycena DESCRIPTION: H:2-4'h in (S-12 em), 0:'1.- 1'/. in (23 em). Cap conkal or campanulate. striated 10 the middle in damp weather, pink or pink ocher and powdery. Gills pinkish-white, the same color as the cap. Stipe exudes a bklod-red SPFClAl II ATlJRF.S These two myunas IAlJ'ftNOI 54lfgui"o- 1''''1/), arc Ihe only fungi which n ude a red milk. M)'tttlll (TllCtllII uude$ an o r ~ g milk. mi lk whef1 broken. Flesh blood-red, no typi- cal odor and mild or slightly biller lIavor. HABITAT: In lufts 00 the stumps of deciduous trees. Summer and fall. Fairly common \0 UllCommon. Widespread. MYCENA INCLINATA Indi ned Mycena DESCRIPTION: H:3'l.-4'/, in (8-12 em), a: 1/._ 1'/, in (24 em). Cap Cilmpaf'lUlate, with a striated mar- gin to the middle of the cap. and a toothed edge, gray but darker in the cellIe!'. Gills creamcOOed then fIesh-roiored. often curved, hollow and brittle. while al fil'1t, HABITAT: in dense IUfts on old deciduous then clearly reddefling from the base, finally stumps. mainly oak and cheslllUt Fall and reddish-brown ard whitish at the lop, Flesh early winter. Very (ommon and widespread. thin, smelling strongly of greasE!. Mild flavor. MYCENA GALOPUS Milk-drop Mycena DESCRIPTION: H:2-4 in (510 011), 0:'J. -l'/' in (23 em). Cap hemispherical or coni<a!. often downy, striated OYer almost all the surioce, beige through gray-brown, darker in the C{'nlef. Gills widely spaced, .....nile to gray. Stipe very slender (about (2 mm)), smooth and hollow, the base covered in grayish down, and exuding a while latex when broken, which is abundant in young specimen!>. flesh SI' I(IAIIIAIl ' RIS This vuy common mushroom hu a ...tW variety caDed Ill". or raJiU and black _ ,""""coaAIkted by __ 10 be I IqIInItt ... .,.,.. thin and white, without any par- ticular odor or '""". HABITAT: on woody debris in de<iduous or cooiferous Ioo!sts. SUmmef and lall, until the beginning of winter, Very common and widespread . THE TRICHOLOMATALES ...ill.... on DESCRIPTION: H:3 'I.-4'J, in (8- 12 em), 0:1'I. t l.. in (] 7 em). Cap conical al filsllhen shaped like a pith-helmet, striped up to the umbo, gray-beige through gray- bfown. Gills whitish, may turn pink in older specimens. Stipe very {oria<eous and hollow, the ~ m e COIOf as the cap but paler SP[( tAl FFATl JRI S A1thwgh one of the IMgnt lny(tlW in the Itlllpmltt wne, ;1 is rarely ~ r than 2'/, in (6 em) in diuoeler. MYCENA POLYGRAMMA Striped Stem Myccna DESCRIPTION: H:2-6 in (5 15 em), 0:'/..2''' in (2-6 em), Cap conical then slightly flat- tened with a central umbo, wrinkled or deeply striated, gray-brown wilh a pruinose surface. Gills white 0/ pale gray then IUmiog pink. Stipe amy attain 8 in (20 (m) in length but is a fraction of an inch thick. Silvery-gray and heavily striated along its length, hairy at the base. Flesh whitish at the base. al the lop. Roots into the sub- strate by means of a rhi - lomorph. Flesh while and : I ~ .... _ thin with a floury odor and lIavor. HABITAT: grows ill clumps or groups on roUing stumps or brafl(hes of deciduous trees. In summer and lall. Very common and widespread. Flesh whitish, odor- less, navor mild. HABITAT: in small tufts on buried dead wood, old stumps 0/ tree trunks. In summer arid fall, and late in the year. Common arid widespread. MYCENA METATA Conical Mycer.a DESCRIPTION: H: I'f.- tl, in (36 cm). 0: '1,. 1 in (1-2.5 crn). Cap conical. faintly striated along three'quaner 01 the pruinose area, beige to pale brown with a paler margin tim- ed yellow or pink. Gills whitish, with refle<- tions turning pink with age. Stipe long and slender, smooth and bfown, hairy at the base. Flesh thin. smelling of iodine. the MYCENA LEPTOCEPHALA Thin-capped Myccna DESCRIPTION: H:l ',,i/, in (37 cm). 0:'/,,'/. in (t 2 em). Cap ovoide then campanulate. striated to the center, grayish. Gills pale gray with white edges. Stipe long and thin, thickening slightly al Ihe base. covered in long, white li!amems. f lesh very Ihin. paJe in colO/. smelling of bleach, and with a mild flavor, HABITAT: grOOM singly 0/ in groups. txrt without forming clumps. in coniferous or deciduous forests. Summer through fall. Very common and widespread. becoming stronger when the is dessicated. Mi!d fla'Xlf. HABITAT: in troops on leaf lillet or pine oeedles.lale summer through late fall. Fairly common. SPECIAl FEATURFS Another of Mytella, tlfJ1't"" {i/o/1ft (" ,II. ilHloltlls) which is jusl as fragile, POJKsJ6 Ihis same odor of iodine. The species are orten confun d, as il is hard 10 distinguish berwren them. THE TRICHOLOMATAlES MYCENA VITILlS, M. FILOPES Strong-stemmed Myccna SPFCIAI FFATURFS Tbi$ fungus is similar 10 the Sniped Stem MycrM (M)wra l'oJrgra ...... a), and ;1 , har the same habitat, but thcn: an: no sl ripn on its stem. DE S CRIPTI O N: H:2"j'S in (613 em), 0: '/0.1'1. in (1.5-3 em). (ono;ex or cooical cap. sometimes umbonate, with a slightly viscid surface aod faintly SIIi ated or smooth, SO thin that lhe gills can be seen through it. Dirty yellow in <olor, paler at the margin. Gills broad, whi tish then pale gray. Stipe very long and slender {about ',.. in (2 mm) in diameter), hollow but very rigid and brittle, white OJ gray-beige, slightly vis- cid when ~ \ f lesh thin and pale: no particular odor or flallQr. HABITAT: under decid- uous trees, on the ground or on twigs, usually isolated. Summer and fall. (ommon and widespread. MYCENA OLIVACEOMARGINATA Olive.edged My.::cna DESCRIPTION: H:2-2'.4 in (5-7 em), 0:"r I'/. in (I .] on). Cap conical or campanulate. then expanding. with furrowed margin, tIw! color 01 oat straw Oight bfownish-yellow). Giis WIdely spaced. whitish with an oIive<oIoIed edgt. Stipe ',I, in (3 mm) thick at most, al50 yellow- ishbn:mfl, paler al the top. Flesh very min, light or dark odor of and mild ftawr. HABITAT: lawns and StJmfTlef through lall. Fairly common. MYCENA SEYNESII De Scync. Myccna DESCRIPTION: H:1 'h-:n . ln (4- 8 em), 0: '/,. , '" in (1-3 an). Cap campanulate then expand ing, striated margin, pink.ish bfown 10 biOWflrsh violet Gills pale pink with a brown edge. Stipe sIendef, the curved base covered WIth a white down and Mding in a bulb. HABITAT: ooly grows on pine woes. espially on OOslef- Of sea-pine. Uncommon. THE TRICHOLOMATALES MYCENA PURA I'ure Myccna DESCRIPTION: H:l ',.-3'f, in (39 em), 13: 1'1.- 1'/, in (3-4 em). Cap COIM!J( then flattening. margr'l striated in wet we<lther, pOOsh-vioIet CK ptnkJsh and 1)1)" icaI in !ohape but can adopt a vallely of coicn from white through and )'@low. Stipe smooth, rigid, hoIk:r.v ard bnnle, pinkish-violet or lilac, with whitish !\aIrs or down at the base. Flesh vnelling quite strorv:JIy of radish. HABITAT: often grows In groups on leavt'S in de<:id- uous woods. espe<ially beech, !.OIlM!llffieS under conifet's, Sumtnef lluough fall. (ommon and widespread. WI (IAI HATl JRI S Tbtrt UC' KYmJ varittits of tbt PuTC' 101M of which ;arc COClJickred 10 be ItJMl1IIC spccia. The commonUI is the Pink (M,n'" _.) whith is '-xcr (the ap an amin 2'.( in (6 em) in dWnelCt) ilIId which is J, uniform bria:hl pink color. PSATHYRELLA CONOPILUS Cone-cli pped Agaric DESCRIPTI ON: H:4-6 in (10-15 em), 0: (24cm). Conical 01 cap, 5ITIOOth 'Ni!h a stJi. aled margJl, re<klish1Jrw,n (date-brl:w.fl), Iei'd JIg toward ochef as 00es. f'net1 Slriated or dotted v.ith bIad. \'ftoen seef1 L.f1der a IIf<:rM'I gills WIth redcish reIIe<ticIm .nl whte edges. haloN ard brittle, straII'jltCM gON I.4lIO 8 ... (2Q on) k:r'g. ttldef at the base. smooth and -MlitISh, Sjn1k1ed with \'Jtlte at the top. Flesh thin, odorless. mikll\awr. HABITAT: on buried plant debfis, ground. in light copses. at the edge 01 W()()(h, in parks and galdens. Late !>Ummer thlOugh lall. Fairly common and widespfead. THE AGARICALES
'" PSATHYRELLA CANOOLlEANA Crumble Tuft DESCRIPTION: H:l 'lr 4 In (4 10 em), 0: 1'/.-3'1. in (3-8 em). ConICal CiA then bKomlng con- vex. orange yellow or ocher, mane, soon turning pale in dry weather and becomlf"l9 cream WIth a darker center and fringed margin, splil1ing at the end. The gills afe broad and very crowded, pinki!Jl.....tlite but soon darl:ening in stages to lilac brown or violet brown. Stipe smootf1 and white, soon becom- ing hollow and fragile. Flesh thin, grayISh. with a pleasant oOOr and mild flavoI. HABIT AT: Singly or lTlOI'e frequefllly in lullS on rouen wood or near old stumps. In parks. forest paths. and grassy clearings. Spring through fall. Common and widespread. PSATHYRELLA LACRYMABUNDA Weeping Widow DESCRIPTION: H:H4/, in (6 12 em), 0: 1 ",- 4'/: in (4-12 on), Cap domed or conical, then convex. fawn or russel. covered in woolly fibers. Filaments, the remains of a Vi!iI which (overs the gills in young specimens. hang from the margin Gills bfOlYl'l. exuding copious "'ears' 01 Ifansparent liquid when young. turning gray in Siages. and finally blackening. Stipe frag- ile, fibnllose. whitish. russet at the haw, PSATHYRELLA MULTIPEDATA DESCRIPTION: H: 3'H in (8-15 em). 0: 'Jr. 1', il (1-4 on). ConlCallhen campanulate cap with a sill:y. fibrillose surface, reddish-brown or grayishbrown, paling tD ()(hef as it dries. Gills crowded, gray-beige. then dark bfown, wl\h white edge. Slipe long and slender, hollow and bllttle, smooth turning blad: al maturity due to befog rovered In spores. HABITAT: !lingly or in tufts al road- 00 forest paths, In gardens and meadom. late summer through fall. fairly common . and s.lky, while and powdery al the top. thm, reddlsh- brown through beige. mild flavor HABITAT: Ifl compact tufts, COInpri!oing dozens 01 specimens in grassy woods and parks. late summer through l all. Uncommon, __ m/llmUiOU$ rll(is THE AGARICALES ..!!l.. IOJ PSATHYRELLA PlLULIFORMIS Slltin, temmed Agark DESCRIPTION: H: 24'/ .. in (5 12 an), 0: (25 em), Conkal then campanulate cap. mote or less expanded; the edge 01 the cap is laced with the white remains of the hygrophanous. changmg from yellow ocher In the dry stage to dark reddishbrown when wet Both shades may be present on the same cap. Gills crowded, pale. then tLtfniog gray-brown and fill(lily dark brown WIlli a white edge. Stipe smooth, hollow, and britt!.!, then turning brown, colored black by the spores. Flesh thin, brown, paling to beige as it dries; faint odor, mild fl""". HABITAT: in deose tufts on rot 111'19 !oILrT1PS or in the ground ilfound an of trunt.. Surrvnef d'vough fall Common and widespread PSATHYRELLA SPADICEDGRISEA Gray.brown Psathyrclla DESCRIPTION: H 24 in (5 10 em), o 1 'f..v, in (36 em). Cap o:rQ th!n o:xMX, 'M1t1 a Icrge I.ITOl fnett striated l4l1O the IJTlbo. espeOatj as it ages; odYaceous.bwMl, fa'Ml a tl.mng grh oot palng to ocher or dirty cream wflen cr,.1he fari1 oOMled giIs ill! 00m <Jt1Of deo.rJe1 CI'I a lil- lie SIi1l.n:l remail pale <J<lY b a blg trne, tfw:on timing don vdMt brO'Ml. slightly thickened at the base, """ _ hoIow and brittle SITIOO!h and v.tutiSh. Flesh
mik:l. HABITAT: 00 the gro.rd or on rotten 'MXld, on turus, along paths. I.I'Idef deOOJous trees. Malllly III I"" I\ril ...... tm!S in the fat Fairly ctmTKJl ""- COPRINUS DISSEMINATUS Fairies' Bonnets DESCRIPTION: H: '4- 2 in (2-5 on), 0: 'Ao,'!. in (O.S-I.S em). Cap ovoid Of campanulatl', with finely woolly surface, cream vmen young. tI'K!n ocher, light brown, Of gray, the center remaining ocher, wilh a smooth surface, deeply striated to the center. Gills whi le, blackefling, but not dehqlll'SCent, wllh while edge. Stipe hollow and thin, very fragile and wflile. Hardly any flesh, odorlm and HABITAT: in huge. densely-packed dooIps on or near and rotting wood. Spring through fall, Vefy common. COPRINUS OOMEST/CUS Domesticated Ink-cap DESCRIPTION: H: 2-4 in (510 em). 0: '1.-2 in (2-5 em). Cap 0Y0id at first then cOlUcal.latt'll'xpand- ing and slightly convex. ochef WIth a reddish (eflle!'. In young speclmeM it ii covered in dense, whitr!>h granulalion\ whidl subse- quenlly disappear (' Keepl at the lop. the SUI- face is then str iated or furrowed almost \0 the center. Gills whitish then dark bfOwn. Stem velvety in young specimens, with a scaly bulb at the bollom whldl sometimes displays the bright red mycelium. Pale flesh, not very deliquescent, faint SllM!II and mild ",,,,. HABITAT: On stumps and cut branches of de<iduous tlees. and eYefI foul'd in the cel- lars of houses. Late spl'ing through early fall Fairly common . COPRINUS MICACEUS Glistening Ink-cap DESCRIPTION: fI: 2-4 in (5-10 (m), 0: If- o 1 '" in (2-4 un). Ovoid then conical cap. striated almost 10 the centl'l; with a saw-toothed edge. brown through ocher, darkef 81 the center, and sprin in young spe<imens with shiny specks like mica. Gills white then purple-brown. black and finally deliquescent, with white edge. Stipe 1009, COPRINUS NIVEUS Snow Whi te Ink-cap DESCRIPTION: H: 24 in (510 em), 0: 1" 2 in (2-5 em). Ovoid cap, opening like an umbrella, ending in an upturned margin which Is ohell ragged, pure white pure and floccose a1 fbI, the flakes tending subse- quemly to disperse, revealing a pale gray Gills while, blackening and eventually dellquescing, with a white THE AGARICALES -"'- 185 hollow and fragile, brittle, slightly wider toward the base, white and silky. Flesh thin, odorless and flavorless. HABITAT: in tufts or groups on Of near Jotting deciduoos wood, stumps. half-buried branches, in copses and woods, beside paths, Spring throogh fall. Common. edge. Slipe hollow and brill Ie, slightly thitkening al lhe base, pure white, also floccose in young specimens. Flesh thin and gray; flO characteristic odor or flavor. HABITAT: singly or in small groups, on buffalo chips, COWpal S, or h()(se dung, in pastures. from spring throl>Qh fall. Fairly common. COPRINUS LAGOPUS Hare's-foot Ink-cap DESCRIPTION: in (612 em). 0: '1.- ,'" in (24 em), Cap cylindrical or ovoid, eventually lIat and With an upturned edge, entirely cov- ered with whi le wooly down which even- tlJally disappears. revealing a mouse-gray background, bul persisting in Ihe cenler when Ihe cap is fully expanded. Gills widely-spaced. narrow, whitish [hen black- ening quickly, Stipe cylindrical, thickening at the base, hollow and brittle, covered like Ihe cap wilh whitish wooly down which is very dense at first. Flesh while, odorless, flavor mild. COPRINUS PICACEUS Magpie Mushroom or Magpi e Cap DESCRIPTION: H;48 in (1020 em), 0:'/.- 2'/. In (2-6 em). Cap (l'.'()id and ....nitM at first, later campanu- late and reddis/1-brO'Ml, sprinkled with ....nite. Gills crowded, free, ....nile then reddening. befOfe tuming black, I.WfIttlally liquifying. Stipe hollow, rigid arid thickening toward ttle base, ...mite and fibri llose. Flesh thin arid gray- ish, with an uopiea5anl odor arid flavor. HABITAT: singly Of in small groups in HABITAT: seal tered or in groups of several individu- als in cool places. under bustles aod in grassy places in woodland. Summer through fall. Fairly common and widespread. deciduous woods, in shady places. l.;lIe sum- mer through fall. Uncommon. DESCRIPTION: H:2 6 in (515 em), 0:"',' 2'/, in (4-6 em). Cap ovoid al first, with liule broWl1 flakes al tile top. then opellil'l9 into a bell shape and cracking, (Jearn through mouse-gray, striated almost over whole surface. Gills very crowded, while, blackening starting althe edge and melting into a black liquid. Stipe hollow and fibrillose, while, marked at the base with a reddish annular deeply embedded in the substrate by means of a rooting base. fle!Jl thin and while, with faint odor and pleasant flavor. HABITAT: in large dense clumps. rarely singly, on rOiling wood, some- times in the 9fOUJ'\d, althe foot of old stumps, THE AGARICALES -'-"- '" in open ground. such as the edge 01 woods and roadsides. Spring through fall. Com- mon and widespread. FDlBIlITY Whcn very yo ... ng it is edible, but alcohol must not be drunk during the mcill or it will intcrotct with (aprint, producing symptoms such iS hUrl paipititions, nausu, flIcial congestion, and n'tn disl'\lpcions 10 vision. Thtst dfem !\\iy n'rn manifest themselves if alcohol is consumed StVtril WlYS ahtr consu.mpcion of tht mushroom since tht principle brem down very slowly in the hunwt body. Coprint is n'tn used as 01 rure for akoholism. COPRINUS COMATUS Sha.ggy Ink'ca", Lawyer'. Wig DESCRIPTION: H; 48 in (1020 em), 0: 'J.-l'J. in (27 em). In young sp!Cimens. Is elongated inlO a sheath surroundll'lg the Slip!. It is wh,te and enlnely (overed In Ioog, upturned scales WIth be.ge Of reddIsh lips. except at the top which is dearly defined by a round ocher or redl:iishpatch; it "'" ""'"' "" QUickly into a bell and st3ftS to liquefy from the edge, turn ing inlo thick black inl:. The gills are free. very crowded, while but soon turning pink, then black from the edge of!he cap. The stipe is long (sometimes more than 8 in (20 un)), cylindrical and hollow, slightly bul o o ~ becoming dirty gray or brown upon maturity. it has a lillie ring whid'l eventually bKOIl'oPS detached aoo falls off. The fleY1 is while and soft, WIth little. odof 01 flavor. FI>IBILITY Vtty good 10 UI, tvl'n when DW. Howewr, h ~ ShaaY Ink.Up abtoluttly mUM M picktd \'tf)' youna, whik the JiIh ~ still whitt, or..n you will be ltil with in the ~ is u ~ thick, blat:k liquid. For the smM: rusoa, it mUSI be utrn ~ $00II .., pouibk after picking. Cannol be dmd or pickJed. THE AGARICALES .l!!.. 189 HABITAT: in groups. sometimM 01 tightly packed individuals on lawns, waste land and all types 01 recently disturbed earth, 100Mt paths. and roadsides. From spring through fall. Very common and widespread. gills /rltdlwillS from tbt bottom sri CIAI. FI ATlJRFS II hiS bun pMsiblt 10 grow SNogy Ink Cilps (OmtntrciaUy for 5l'Vcral yun now, eithtr from mylium or from impregnaled compost. Howcvtr, since theft is no mcthod of fungus, evm by frtezing, snWI sule and large.sule growers of the CllItivalcd Mushroom Ind wild mushroom. Nove been n:luctant to produce il. COPRINUS PLICA TillS Pleated Ink-cap DESCRIPTION: H: 1 ',,- il. in (4- 7 em), 0: ',,- I 'I. in (2-] em), The cap is elongated at fir$1 into a cylinder Of egg-shape, and reddish- brown, but it subsequently expands inlO a furrowro grayish umbrella, like a parachute. though the center remains smooth and reddish. The gills ale white, turning gray hut first becoming pinkish. The stipe is very sk!nder and long, hollow and brittle, smooth and while. There is hardly any f ~ and no odor or flavor. AGARICUS BITORQUIS Sidewalk Mushroom DESCRIPTION: H: 24 in (5 10 em), 0: 1'11-4 in (4-10 (m). Cap convex, $OOn flattening, HABITAT: on lawns. in pastures, at road- sides, among grass or on bare soil. Spring Through fall. Fairly common. round the stipe likE' a volva. Flesh thick and and firm turning faintly pink when cut. smooth Of fibrillose, white _ ~ .......... or pale gray, splashed wi lh ocher, often soiled wilh particles of earth. Gills pale HABITAT: on packed earth, ~ n breaking through asphalt, in parks. gardens. footpaths. around trees in cities. In groups. sometimes fused together at the base of the stipe. Summer and autumn. Uncommon. pink tllen lilac-gray alld final ly dark brown. Stipe white. full. short and thICk, narrowing to a point at the base, with two distinct rings. the lOWe!" one wrapping - '. THE AGARICALES
'" AGARICUS CAMPESTRIS Field Mushroom DESCRIPTI ON: H: 1'/,4 in (4-10 em), 13: 1 '/,4 in (4 10 em). Cap thick. globulose or hemispherical al ihl, be<omiflg almost flat toward the eM, smooth aod silky, often with white shreds. the remainder of the veil, haflging 110m the margin, white, slightly yellowing or turning brown, somi!times with small grayish or brownish flauened scales. Gills narrow and crowded, pale pink and gradually darkening to take on a final brownish-black color. I-Dl811 lTV Very good to tal and can caltn rlIIW or cooked. The Field Mushroom is bett uttn when the ''''p i$ while the gills stiD pink. CONFUSION .. AGARICUS XANTIIODERMA Yellow-stllNngMushroom I'oIsoNous Stipe shorl and full, Ixiule, slightly narrow- jog but rounded al the base, white, brown- ing with age, fibrillose or slightly floccose beneath the ring. Ring thin and single, not well developed and withering quickly to leave only a slight trace. Flesh white, thick at the center, thin at the edge, turning very slightly pink when cut; pleasant odor and mild flavor. HABITAT: meadows grazed by canle, shef!p, or horses, from late summer to midfal l, sometimes in spring; often after showers following a very hot summer. Very common and found all over the world. Grows in groups and may suddenly appear en masse from one day 10 the next. SPH. IAL FF.ATlIRIS Tht common Fit ld Mllshroom J.ctllJ!ly conSilts of a number of difftrent fOrD1$ md va.rittitl, which vary nWnIy in tht of the .umct of CoIp. caps au in gtoI)', brown, or 6brib or 1b1101tl. AGARICUS BISPORUS Cultivated Mushroom DESCRIPTION: H: 2-4 in (5-10 em), 0: 24'/, in (5 12 em). FDlBIiITY Excellml nUn, mel un be uten nlW. The artl\d wlution of wild spfcilntllS bs contributtd 10 ilS commcrcUI production. It WII first cultivattd in mnft mort lI\,.n 300 ynn Igo in old Slonc quarriel Ind disused mint workings around Paris, which i, why it it known in French as "Ownpignon ck pm.," It is !lOW grown aU ovcr the worid ud altboII,h il is 1M most popWu mU$hmom in 1M Wn;I, ItIt Padely 51n1w Mu.ihroom, ellten in lOuthtut Milo, is the lII0I1 wickly CUIriilcd. Cap hemisphefical at flfSl WIth a flattened (erne., becomng depressed WIth age. and undulatlll9 bor- def. Surlace smooth and fibrillose, 01' slightly scaly, especially at the mal- gin, pure while, browniro;! slightly to the tOlJ(h. Gis oowded and J'IOOOW, pale plIlk. lhefl brown and fmally bIaO:. Stipe 5hcJt. lady 1 'lrl" in (410 7 em)). thicker or thinner al the base, while, staining blown when toochedring ascendant (not pendant), faint and fugaceoos. striated on the uppef WI - face. flesh firm and white, turning pink when exposPd \0 the air, especially in the base 01 the Sllpe. and bfowning WIth age; pleasant odoi and mild f1aYOf. HABITAT: manured meadows and gardens. parks, and on old (ompos!. SPlHlQ through fall. Not common in the wild bot occurring tllfougnout the nonhern hemisphere. ACARICUS XANTHODERAfA Ydlow'SI.ollnLng Mushroom . DESCRIPTION: H: i/.-5In (713 em), 0: t Ir4'/, in (6- 12 em), The (ap is COWIe<! in dark gray scales on a pale gray background. the Scales are very dense in Ihe (enter, mOl"e widely spa<ed <lIthe edge, imitating the plumage of the guineafowl. Gills crowded, white then pink, and finally blackish-brown. Slipe slightly swollen arid bulbous at the base, becoming hollow and brillle; whitish, staining AGARICUS PORPHYRIA Brown-capped Agaric DESCRIPTION: H: 2 4 in (5 10 em), 13: 2-3'" in (5-8 em). Cap hemispherical th{'(l expanded, with vermillion scales and fibrils on a pinkish background, reddish-brown althe (en- ler. Gills crowded, lurning dark brown. Stipe thickening inlO a bulb al the pink above ring, whi te below it, yellowing at Ihe base. Fragile, while, yellowing THE AGARICALES ..ill... '" when loudled. then brown- ish. flesh thick and white, soon lIJrnlng yellow, especially al the base of the stipe; odOf of phenol. mild flavor. HABITAT: groves. parks. gardens. meadows, the edges of forests. Summet and autumn. Fairly common 10 uncommon. Appears in large numbers locally, ring. Root ,like filamenlS (rhizomorphs) arf' wmf'- trmf'S viSiblf' wheo mushroom is uprooted. whilf', yellowing mainly around the ba$l:' of the stipe; odor of biltf'r almonds HABITAT: undf'r decidLiOUS Iref'S, in forllSls. parks. gardf'ns. and hedgf'rows. Summef through fall. Uncommon. AGARICUS AUGUSTUS Prince MushrOQm DESCRIPTION: H: 4-8 in (10-20 em), 0: 48 in (10-20 em). Cap globulose or trapezoid, then expanded or fleshy, with russet O!' brown scales on a pale!" background and shreds of the veil hanging from the margin. Gills nar- row and crowded, remaining pale pinkish gray fOf a long time, then Illrning purplish bmwo. Stipe \hkk (up 10 , '/, in (4 em)) especially al the base, smooth above the ring, with while or orange behlw iI, to the touch; ring large and white floccose underneath. Flesh white, yel . lowing in the cap and reddening in the slipe; strong odor of biller almor.ds, mild flavor. HABITAT: de<:iduous or (ooiferous woods, verges, parks. and grass- land, somelimes in meadows. Summer through fall. fairly common and widespread. THE AGARICALES .lli. ", AGARICUS ALBERTII, A. MACROSPORUS Alben's Mushroom DESCRIPTION: H: 2'1.-7 in (7-18 em). 0: 3'/.8 In (820 em), Cap very fleshy, hemispheficai at first and up 10 12 In (30 em) In diameter, while, yel- lowing very slightly, becommg slightly ocher WIth age. silky or scaly. Gills pinkish- white, turning gray llIen chocolate bfown. SlJpe very thick. 1'1. \0 2 in (3 10 5 em) in diameter, slightly swollen in the middle or toward the baS!, while splashed WIth ocher and bfown, very 00wny below the nng, especially In young spKrmerl1; ring inegular afld downy, floccose undeflleath in young specJmens. Flesh thick, white, yellow- ing very slightly, tlIming blown al the base of the supt. Faint oc\oI of aniseed, becoming an unpleasant ammoniacal odor when old. HABITAT: in pastures. on lawns. in parks. on non-aadic soil. Summer through early fall. Fairly common to fairly rare. FIlIBIiITY Good 10 UI, b\Jt mUSI be Ulm vtry you"" Wbtn older, il tmds to 5mtU like urine, hencr its othn I\iIIIlC, Ag.riCl11 urillllMrlls- AGARICUS SILVATICUS Brown Wood Mushroom DESCRIPTI ON: H: i l.- s In (7-13 em), e: 24'/, in (5 12 em). Cap conical then Hanening, 00\ very thiel:., sprinkled with reddish-brown scales, that ale fairly numerous and widely spaced, on a whitish background, Gi lls flesh pink, turning dark purplishbrown when mature. Stipe slightly bulbous and while. becoming hollow and red- demng with age; ring membfanous ample and white, Flesh white, quickly wming red when cuI. especially in young spe<imens. Pleasant odor and mild flavor. AGARICUS XANTHODERMA Yeliow-sUlini ng Mushroom DESCRI PTI ON: H: 2",-5 in (7-13 em). I: 24'11 in (5 12 em). The cap is trapezoidal In thi! young speci - men, then convex \0 flallefled wi th a smootll surface, silky while, becoming bright yellow when rubbed. The gills are narrow and crowded, white at first, then turning grayishpink then purplish-brown. Stipe thick or slender and sinuous, with a small HABITAT: on the !iller 01 conifers. especially spruce, rarer in deciduous woods. Late summer through fall. Common. Found all over the world. POTf. N flAL CONFUSION All the edible mushroom" but tsp<'cioilly: .. AGARICUS CAMPESTRIS Field Mushloom EOIBI.E ... AGARICVS AH. VENSIS Horse Mushroom EOIBI.l THE AGARICALES
'" SPFCIAI FFATURFS The YeUow-staining Mushroom has a fairly characteristic odor of iodine or phenol, ilnd is even more retognizable by the pronounced yeUowing of the u p and base of the stipe whn touched. The varieey dtKribcd here iJ the classic cypc and the most fnquently encountered, recognizable by its while tolor. Howevu, there are other varieties in which the cap is gny, gray.brown, with thin Kales, or . plit intO co.mr AU art equaUy indigestible. white bulb. turning yellow when rubbed, especially al Ihe bulb; thkk, membra- nous, pendanl while ring. The while flesh l urns yel- low when cut especially in Ihe bulb; unpleasant odor of ioclirlE!, or phenol. HABITAT: in groups in fertilized meadows. wellli l decidu ous or conrferous woods, sand on lawns. Summer through fall. Fairly (om- moo. A sl ightly di fferent form is found on lawns in North America, which is called the Califomian Mushroom (.Agancus califolnlCUs) The cap is fairly scaly, browning in the cenler. It is often con fused with with the f ield Mushroom (.Agaricus campestris). TOXICITY Slightly toxic. The odor, whkh is unplea$ollnr when the mushroom is picked, bccom foul wllrn it is rooked. Although some people art able to eat this mushroom without the problem, in most people it causes symptoms typical of mild food poisoning; vomiting, diarrl!u , headaches, etc. AGARICUS ARVENSIS Horse Mushroom DESCRIPTION: H: 47 in (IO18cm), 0: 4.6 in (10 1 5 em), Thid;, firm cap, hemisp/1elkal then expanding to flat, with a margin thaI remains inrolled fOf a long lime, Surface smooth, white and oacking and boming stained wilh ochef, yellowing slighl to the touch. GilJs III!ry crowded, graykh pink, very pale in young POTFNT1Al (ONHJSION .. A/UANITA PfiALLOIDES Death Cap DU.DlY .. AGARICUS XANTHODERMA Ycllow-slallling Mushroom specimens. then pur- plish-brown and blackish. Stipe thick (3'1.- 6in x It.- I '/. in(8-1Sx 2- 3 em)), espe<i.lltt al the base. be<oming hollow with age, white, yellow ing \0 the toucher, slightly floccose in young specimens below the ring. The white ring is membranous and double, the lower one taking the !.hape 0/ a gear-wheel Of slar, dear- ly visible in the young spe<imen. Flesh thick al the Cefl lef, vtIite, yellowing slightly, especially in the stipe. Fairly marked odof of aniseed and mild flavor. HABITAT: pastures, grassy clearings. parks. From lale summer to mid-fall, sometimes from the sprill9. Uncommon to fairly common; widespread. found 00 fflfY (oo!inent. I DlUII tTY Very good 10 (aI, enn when I1IIW. To be talen young, prdcl1IIbly when the gills atc still pale becaU$r the spottS MVt nOI matured yd. THE AGARICALES ...ll!.. '" AGARICUS SILVICOLA Wood Mushroom DESCRIPTI ON: H: 2'/.-S'" in (1-14 em), e: 24'/, in (512 em), Cap ovoid or conical. with a fla\lened then widely expaJ'lded lop, whilE! to cream, stain- ing yellow when tOl.lChed, silky ()I' slight Iy fibrillose. Gills very C1owded, pale gray, turning pink am! finally sepia. Stipe flexible, POTFNTlAl CONFUSION .. AMANITA PHALLOIDES Death Cap DEADLV .. AMANITA VERNA Spring Amanita .. AMANITA VIROSA Destroying Angel Df.A[)lY DEADLY fairly bulbous. while or above the ring, white becoming stained with lemon yelklYl below il. Ring thin, full, floccose on the underside. Flesh thi<k at thE' center, thin al the edge, while, turning yeHow when WI, strong odor of aniseed. HABITAT: deciduous Of cooiferous woods. Summer through fall. common. CYSTOLEPIOTA ASPERA Pointed-scal e Parasol Mushroom DESCRIPTION: H: 2'1.-4 f. in (7 12 em), 0: 3'/,-5 in (813 em). Cap (onicallhen coovex and more or less umbonate, densely COVf!red with cooical reddish- Ixown scales, which are more numerous at the cenler, show- ing an ochraceous-gray back ground in between. Gills broad, very oowded and forked. white then cream. Stipe bewming hollow with age, downy. thi! same color as the cap. thicken- ing ;010 a small bulb al the base; ring futl, pendant, and membranous. edged with mown Oakes. Flesh Ihin 31 the edge 01 the cap, whitish; odor strong and unpleasant; flavor faint but also unpleasant. HABITAT: found in fertilized soil, such as copses. verges, as well as in deeidl.lOU5 or coni ferous woods; prefers nitrogen-rich, limestone soil. Summer through fall. Common and widespread. THE AGARICALES 200 20\ LEPIOTA CASTANEA Chestnut Parasol Mushroom DESCRIPTION: I-t: 1 '/,. ]'/> in (46 em), 0: 1/._ 1 '" in (24 em), (ap conical at first then fl auening and umbonate, cheslnullo russet. Gills whi le, slightly reddening. Stipe downy on the lower half or two-thirds. reddisl1-brown; ring absent or fainl. Flesh pale ocher, faint odof. HABITAT: copses and deciduous forest$. Summer through fall. Uncommon. LEPIOTA CRISTATA Stinking Parasol Mushroom DESCRIPTION: H: , '/. 2'1, in (3- 6 em). 0: ',,-2 in (2S em). Cap conical at first, soon flanening, wilh a marked cenual umbo and margin remaining inrolled for a long time, sprinkled with red dish-orange concentric scales on a white background. but uniform red on lhe umbo. Gills wide, while, with toothed edges. Stipe smooth, hollow, and briule, whil e or slightly pink or reddish toward the base, with a fugaceous white ring. Flesh thin and whitish; sHong. unpleasant odor, flavOf mild but also unpleasant. HABITAT: in medium to large groups. at the edge of woods, on lawns, and in welllit conifefOus or de<iduoos woods. Summer through fal!. Common and widespread. LEPIOTA IGNIVOLVATA Red-stemmed l'ar3so1 Mushroom DESCRIPTION: H: 2'/,-411 in (6-12 an), 0: 24 in em). Cap hemispherical and umbonate. tllen convex and umbonate, red- dish ocher or reddish b!'own at the center; elsewhere Ihe cream back- ground Is punctuated with small beige to reddish scales regularly spaced; the margin is long imolled and fringed (remaining from the hanging veil); The gills are wide and whit!!. The stipe is full then thicken- ing from top 10 bottom, with one Of two oblique ridges in Ihe center, edged with orange or reddiSh-brown, and arranged in a ring which is sometimes broken; smooth surface at the top. downy underneath; base turning pink or red with age or from being rubbed (not always noticeable). Flesh white; stroog aoo unpleasant odor, mild but very unpleasant !laVOI. HABITAT: conifef5 or mixed and woods (comlers and deciduous trees), 00 limestone or neutral Late summer through fall. Fairly (om- moo. JIIInll ,illg rtiLli.h. cbJrqut THE AGARICALES ..lli... 2" lEPIOTA ClYPEOLARIA Shield-shaped Parasol Mushroom DESCRIPTI ON: H: 2'1,.. 5 ill (613 em), 0: "/1" )/. in (48 em). Cap hemispherical al first , then expanding and umbonate, covered in beige or ocher scales on a cream background, paler on the frayed margin. The cenler is clearly marked by a smooth redrli!.h-brown patch. Gills crowded, whi le Of cream. Stipe swollen SPECIAL HATURFS The yeUo .... ing Shield-shaped ral11sol Mushroom (Lq;ow ,ulrH>wsI'Orll) is similar bUI its woolly stem is yellowish. lEPIOTA PSEUOOHElVEOLA False Brown Parasol Mushroom DESCRIPTION: H: 2n in (59 em), e: ".-1 'I. in (23 em), Cap conical for a long time, then becoming convex and slightly umbonate, with dark pinkishmown or sepia scales on a pinkish white background. Gills white. Stipe long and slender. pinkishwhile 10 pinkishmown; ring fairly well developed, ridged, wf1ilish, pinkish or grayish brown underneath. Flesh Slightly pink. faint odor. toward the base, rigid but hollow and brittle, the lower two thirds are covered in white woolly flbefs; ring downy at first, fairly full, but disappearing quite soon. HABITAT: I.flder deOO.oos trees (oak, a o:.nlIm. SI.mner \IJto;tl fall Failti commoo and widespread. HABITAT: under deciduous trees, especially in warm regions. Summef lhrough fall. Fairly common . LEPIOTA BRUNNEOINCARNATA Red-brown Parasol Mushroom DESCRIPTI ON: H: , '/._2'/. in (3-7 em), 0: ,'/.-2'1. in (3-7 em). Cap convex then expanded. covered in red- dish or reddish-brown scales, sometimes very densely. on a pale background tinged with pink, darket' brown in the (enll'!'. Gills crowded, while then $1ighlly yellow. Stipe shorl (2 in (5 em) maximum). while at the top, also covered in russet or brown scales on a pink background. Ring qUill' faint, often a mere ridge on Ihe stipe. The while flesh reddens slightly when cut; mild flavor. HABITAT: lawns. gardens. verges, grassy woodland, beside hedgerows, on rich soil. Lale summer through fall . Fairly raIl', but may be relatively common in certain Mediterranean or Atlantic regioos, SPECIAl FEATURES This is of the gTOUp of small brown Par.lSo] Mushrooms onu aU c.illcd Lt/,;otll hd.'toIll. AU these mushrooms are lC$$ than 4 in (10 em) tall, and colored in shades of pink. Their ring is faint or absent. should be taken to dUtinguish them &om edibk Parasol Mushrooms bceroust Ihey can caU5C srriOU$, and n'en faul, poisoning. The main difftrenu is th" they arc much smaller than Ihe edible species. THE AGARICALES "" 2" LEUCOAGARICUS LEUCOTHITES The Off-whi te I'arasol 5/It,r/l
FDl81UTY Good 10 till, but tht risk of confusion with the dtlldJy sptciu of is K riOIlS. POTENTIAl CONFUSION II> AMANITA PHALLOIDES Death cap Df ..... DlY II> AMANITA VERNA Spring Amanita .. AMANITA VlROSA I)cstroying Angel Dv.IJI.Y Df.ADlY DESCRIPTION: H: 2-4 in (5-10 em), 0: 2-4 in (510 em). Cap hemispherical then convex, smooth, while. and Silky. Gills remain while for a long time, lurnir.g pink or gray- ish-p1nk when old, Stipe whi te, swollen at the base into a mall 91000- lose bulb, with an underdeveloped ring, which slides eaSily up and down Ihe stipe. Flesh while and firm. thick in the cap; no characteristic odor or flavor. HABITAT: in meadows. park.s. gardens. and by roadsidM. Summer through fall. fairly common. This mushroom is ont of complu group containing many spears and varirties which aK difficwt 10 idrnrify. It is said to be a roH livr species. MACROLEPIOTA PROCERA Parasol Mushroom DESCRIPTI ON: H: 612 ill (1530 em) (up to 16 in (40 em)), 0: 4-12 in (1030 em), Cap ovoid al first, then and eventualty flal, oot almost always retaining a central umbo; while or cream back ground l'mlrely with grayi$h !.(ales and broWll platelets. reddish-brown or darker brown, fairly well spaced toward the edge, more crowded toward the center and uniformly reddish brown. The gills are crowded and Vf!ry thick, fret! and elastic, remaining white for a long lime, eVef1tually darkening \0 dirty (Jearn. The stipe is longer than the diameter 01 the cap, POTFNTIAL CONFUSION ... A1ACH.OLEPI OTA VENENATA VtnomouJ Parasol POISONOUS All the little Parasol Mushrooms no WIer Ihn";n (10 must be avoided, ... LEPIOTA BRUNNEOINCARNATA Scarlet-brown Parasol DEADI.Y ... LEPIOTA CRiSTATA Crested LepiOta POISONOUS .. LEPIOTA BRUNNEOLlLACINA lIlacbrown DEADLY THE AGARICALES '06 '" straight. thickening slightly toward the bo1- 10m, fibrous and soon becoming hollow, but rigid. The surface is (overed with zigzag striations like a snakeskin, the pattern being larger toward the base. The ring is large and double, very thick and woolly, and can be slid up and down the stipe; the bulb is large and whi le. The while flesh is thin and soft; faint odor but mild hazelnut flavor. HABITAT: in small groups in neglected meadows and pas- tures. fallow land, among heather and macken, althe edge of wood!. Of hedgerows, and in deciduous forests. tate summer 1hroogh fall. Very (om- mon and widespread. H)IBll.ITY Vtty good to u,t.OnIy the ColIp is edible, the king 100 conaccous. Whcn the up is txpandtd, the flesh trnds 10 bome MOI'C' cwtk In some pbcn, it is then in b.1ttt. or lmadcrumbs liII;c'Mltt. SPECIAL FEATURES The large Parasol Mushrooms is one of the most populu of edible mushrooms, it is dislinctivt and so u$)' 10 recognize. hs size mUM Ihat jt can bt spoiled even from a moving vrhiclt! The young, dOKd capped sptcimcns art known as Drumsticks. CIlp 0I"Oid in )'Cung . -r-- hclll1tl., MACROLEPIOTA KONRADII Konrad's Par/lsol Mushroom DESCRIPTION: H: 4-5 in (10-13 em), 0; t,.-4", in (7-12 em). Cap ovoid, then cooical. flanened in the end, with a wide, shallow umbo; the center is reddish-brown, wrth a Cfeam margin covered in small brown spots. Between them, a seriM of large brown scales form circles radiating from the center, The gills are large wide and whitish, The hollow stipe is rather bulbou$, smooth or finely striped with reddish-brown, and has a thick, sliding white ring, edged with gray on the underside, The flesh is soft and pale. reddening sHghtly when cut, e ~ i l l y in the stipe; no panicular odor and fiaVOf. HABITAT: singly or In groups at the edge of forMt5- beside hedgerows. and In clear- ings. Summer through fall. fairly common. SPECIAL FFAnJRFS Thm an: KYCr.lI similar specits of Parasol Mushrooms, including me Frilly Parasol (lllarroltJ"'*' tX{oriatR), the Umbonate: Par3WI (/tIlKroIqW Jrta5/OiJtIl), the Crxcrw rara$Ol (AIIICrok/1ioIII rid:m), and Kow's ransol (l.tjoioM konrtldU}, but aD of thnn an: fdlbk. THE AGARICAlES MACROLEP/OTA RHACODES Snu88)' Parasol Mushroom EDIBILITY Good to tal. Somt minor probltm' rtported but they OUt prob.1b1y due 10 conMion with olha, wry limibr vantlits of p.1Insol mu,hroom, sU(h as the 1Nmt",;CII vaneI)' or tht rectnlly apdy.namtd 'potdes Lf/fiQI<I ''tll(",,'''. DESCRIPTION: H: 4'1,8 in (1220 em), 0: 21.,.6 in (6-' 5 an) Cap globulose then remaifllng hemi- spherical or COI1YeX 'Of a long [lilli!, !\as no umbo. fringed marg,n, red dish and smooth in the cenler, covered in large brownish, well- spaced brOWTlish scales. making it look hirsute. Gills whil e or oeam, reddening to the touch and when mature Slip!! brittle, hollow and smooth, 'NhitiYi, reddishbrown to the touch and wIth age, ring thick and sliding, wtutl! MId sMggy; 'MY large marginate bulb, often oblique due 10 cUlVawre of the stipe at the base. Flesh lending to turn carrot or red- dish when CUI, then turning brownistHed; pleasant odor, mild flaVO!'. HABITAT: In small groups in welH\ woods and under (olllfer5, fSj)e' (ially spruce, Douglas fir. atld beside hedgPS and in gardens, Summer through fall. Fairly common arid wldpspread. POTENTIAL CONFUSI ON .. LEPIOTA VE.NENATA Parasol MACROLEPIOTA EXCORIATA Fri lly I'ara, ol Mushroom DESCRIPTI ON: H: 812 em, 0: 512 em. Cap domed Qr conical, umbo small 01' absent, almost entirely pale brown in the young specimen, subsequently cracking into large scales on a whitish background. except a! the center whkh remains unl formly pale brown; the margin is shaggy. GlI!s broad and whitish. Slipe smooth and wllile, no longer than the diameter of the cap, With a ba!>e swollen Into a WlaU bulb; FDiBIlITY Good 10 tiI.I, tboup t b ~ 6brou. I. Jhoukl ~ ~ Ofttll cOnNlfd with Iht r amol Mushroom. ... LEnOrA VENENATA Venomous Puuoi POISONOUS ring single, white but tinted With pale mown atlhe edge, conical and ascendent, then sliding along the stipe wilh c1gf. Flesh white, ulKhanging; faint odor, mild ilavOf. HABITAT: in groups In well-drained meadows, pastures, and the edge of woods. Lale summer through fall. Com mon in certain rtgions; widespread. - AMANITA MUSCARIA Hy Agari c DESCRIPTION: H: 4-10 in (1025 em), G: ] 1,8 in (820 em). Cap globu!ose al first and entirely covered with a white membrane, then flallening com- pletely, bfighl red dotted With wt'lite Of yellow- ish-white pus- tules wnich in the younger specimens cover most of the suriacE!. They become more spread out with age and can easily be detached. They lend \0 disappear with age, and the color turns paler. and may even become pale orange. The gills ale crowded, free and broad, while or cream. The stipe is sri ( JAl HATIJRI S THE AGARICALES Hunlcrs of the Ctp or Penny Bun Mushroom (8oIt1US l4ft/is) lind thai the Fly Apric libs the umt habiu! as their favorite food. Thai is why, whtn hunting for the ckliciOU$ boltlt, Ihey Snl SW1 looking for pliicts in which the Fly Apric grows, al it is so easy 10 spot dUl to irs bright (olon. white, very dowfly at !.OIid then hoIk1N, WIth a large. fTagile. pendant ring which turns and whose thick border may be crenelated; the bulb is topped wnh two or three floccose 01 warty ridges. The whne flesh is yelk:m under the OJli(Ie, it has a odor and mild f1aVCH. SPFCIAL FEATURFS Fly Ag ... ric takt on difftrrnl fonns. The Illlrtoin v ... ritl)' ill !alIer ..... d h ... s an o"""gc tlIIp devoid of pustul". II prrfcn [OIIifnoll5 woods. Tht for- IIilricl)' has iI u p wllich Vilri" in color from yellow 10 brigllt orange, bu.t the w;aru on the ''''p, ring, and slipe ... re lemon yellow. This particular form ;, found mostly in North Ameritlil . AU the IIilricti" arr poiS(lnous. THE AGARICALES ...ill.. '" TIt( formosa mntl)' h,TS (SlN1trtimN a!IStIll), /I ri"g. 11",1 II Shiv M,bifh arr ,!lI/(mc" rfl/co.a" HABITAT: glom in groops Of rings. in deciduous or coniferous fOlem, maiflly under birch and spruce; il is ohen to be found on verges. on acid or siliceous soil. lal e summer Ihroll9h fall. Very common Mrywhere, espe<ially in lhe mountains and grom in a wide variety of climates. TOXICITY The symptoms of poisoning of an hour afttr ingestion, through stomach upsets and hallucinations, which may C;1U$C hilariry or extreme depression. The Lapps of Siberia have long exploited the haUucinogcn propl'rUn of the mushroom in thw riles. II would appear dun most of the toxic substances art contained in rht wIkle of the (,lp. This would explain why, in some regions, the mushroom is petlcd befort uting. In the Middle Ages, il was used as a oy-saUer, A pieces of the cap so.:akrd in sugan:d milk 10 auract the mes which were thus killed, hence the common name of the lOushroom. AMANITA CAESAREA Caesar's Mushroom DESCRIPTION: H 4-7 in (10- 18 em), 0: 3",-7 in (818 em). When very young. tile whole mushroom is encased in a thick white membrane. The cap is globulose at then hemi- aod evemually flat - tened It IS thKk. wllh a clearly striated margin, and a bfilliant orange color, sHghl1y Viscid in weather, smooth but some- times a few shrem of Ille uni versal veil still cling 10 it. Gills very thick, crowd@(! and broad, pale yellow then deep gold. Stipe \hkk ('I. \0 1 I. In (2 10 3 em)) bemming bulbous loward the base, striated the ring, and the same coo as the gills. The ling is large and yellow, often slJialed. The vo/va is large, thick, and wtlile, flared at the lOp. Flesh thick and white, yellowing at the peflphery; pleasant odor, mild rIavor. HABITAT: de<:iduous f()fest$, especially oak afld cheslnut, ()f1 add. W!II-drained soil. From late summer through early fall. Fairly common in southern Europe, and rarely north of the 4soN latitude, though in warm years ilglows as far north as Gef - many and 8e\gilJm. u(tDmt, whm raw. Vtry popuLIr in IWy. THE AGARICALES AMANITA PANTHERINA Panther Cap DESCRI PTI ON: H: 3'/.-6 in (8-15 em), 0: 211-4/, in (612 em). Cap domed, tllen convex alld finally Oal, with a finely striated bfown to gray-bfown margin, shiny and dolled witlliittle white flakes arranged in more 01' less concentric circles. Gills uowded, broad and whill'. Slipe pure whi te, fibrilw, WIth a floppy, fug.Ke0u5 white ring toward the center which !\as no striations on the upper Wf- lace. The bulb is large and caf1 grow to 1 'I: in (4 em) in diameter, with a dearly marked IIppe! ridge margillate bulb) lopped WIth a helicoidailloccose ridge wmding once Of twice around the Slipe. while, thick .11 the center; !>light smell of radish, mild fIavoI. HABITAT: grO'M in small groups on grass POTFN II AI (ONllISION velges and decidu- ous 'NOOds. more rarely under cooilefS. Summer through early fall . .... Uncommon but fairly widesplead. MfANfTA RUBESCENS .' / The- 81uwr ED1IIU "---"',- ll> All fANI TA SPI SSA hlr.e P.nthtr Dp [oIBLf SI', (tAl FfATtJRFS A b ller v.rid)' (Vat. grows Wldu mountain coniffn, of which the ap, which is cborittr in color an "ttain a diuMlu of 7 in (II em). ...ill.. m " AMANITA RUBESCENS The 81usher DESCRIPTION: H; 3/.7 in (818 an), 0: l'/.6In (8-15 an). Cap domed Ihefl convex. wnn a margin thaI is not 5111a1OO, beige through pale brown, often shaded with dark l!d, COYeIed in small whrlJsh pink or pale gray detachable Rakes. which are usually vefy dense In young ~ imens, more Wldely!opa(ed and more or less concentJiC at later stages. Gills bmad and crowded, wtHte and spoued WIth pink, turn- ing pink to the loocn. Stipe thick, becoming hollow, thickening toward the base into a bulb with a pomted end; while and striated or smooth a ~ the ring, plnl:ish while and Slightly downy under the ring, clearly marked with crimson on the bulb. Ring wide and pendant. wiated and perSistent. Flesh wMe, ~ reddening when cut and when damaged, reddish-brown undef the cutJdt; odoiless but with mild flavor. SPECIAl FF!\TURES The Blushtr (A ... ,,,,i/II I'HKsce"f) is vel)' v. ... iable sperits, I)f which 5tVenl Vlrieti are rfcogniud. The """IIIoJlli,lifurlll v";ety hu a pale sulfur- yellow ring. All varieties retain the w.me future of reddening or blushing of tht flnh when CUI, tUmagcd, or faten a w ~ y by inlllal'\'ae. HABITAT: singly or in small groups at the edge of welllit dedduous or conif erous forests. in highland and low- lands, on acid or slightly calcareous soil. Summer through fall. Very common and widespread. THE AGARICALES ...lli.... '" Poisonous raw, edible well cooked. The fibrous IIm should bt disaorded. AMANITA SPISSA False r 3nthcr Cap DESCRIPTION: H: 3", -7 in (8 18 em). 0: 2",_4'1/ in (7 12 em), The cap is glQbulose. then hemispherical and finally nat, spfinkled with pale gray plaques against a blown or olive brown The stipe is thick, fi rm and full, striated above the ring. and marked with grayish zigzag bands below it; Ihe ring lull and striated; the bulb is nOt very marked. flesh white, thick althe center; it has a faint odor of radish and a mild navOf. HABITAT: coniferous dally pine) or deciduous (espe- cially oak). 011 acid soil. Summer through fall. Widespread bul uncommon. moll! frequently found at altitude. SPECIAL FEATURES This mushroom I"C$CIIlblrs both the Cap ;md me Blll5hu but il dOl'll nOI tum pink or crimson when d'lIn.td (I' t ul and IIC no clurly marlccd ridgn ovcr the bulb. EDlBIl.ITY Edible but not wonh caling, and should M avoidrd anyway, dur to its clost rrstmblance to the Panthtr Cap. rOTFNTlAL CONFlJSION AMANITA PANTHE. RlNA Panther cap P01SONOUS AMANITA RUBE.SCfNS The Blusher EDlBI.E THE AGARICALES .ll!. '" AMANITA JUNQUILLEA, A. GEMMATA Jonquil Amanita DESCRIPTION: H: 2'lr 4/J in (612 em), 0: 2-4 In (5-10 em), Cap domed and soon flattening, no! very neshy, Wllh a fleshy, yel!ow-to-ocher cap and sUiated margin, ohen decorated with a few white plaqlleS 01 Hakes. Gills white. Sttpe slightly thickened al the base, becoming hol- low wilh itC}I!. v.iUte and floccose; ring while, median and thin, undevelopPd and vef'J fuga- ceous; the votva disappears fairly quidly, leaving a ridge above the buh Flesh while, pale yellow ooder the cutICle, odorles.5 and with a mild fIawr. HABITAT: coniferous 01 dKidU0U5 forests, pine and beech, 011 fairly acid soil. Spfing IhlOU9h fall . Fairly common in south em parIS of the northern hemisphere. rOXI( lTV Somt COIIIMItr it poisonous, oWn tcL'bIt. 1M bet IhII il Iw JO 111m)' vwOons may IMM Wol ;1 is $imply .. Wititt)' of anothtt spia. To M avoidtd. AMANITA PHAllOiDES Death Cap DESCRIPTI ON: H: 3'lr 6'h in (91] em), 0:Hin(51ScmJ. Cap ovoid or globulose. l'nlirely (overed in a white membrane, then hemispheti!;al, aod finally lIattened; color fairly variable, rypically yel!owish-grffil. bul also bfownish'yellow, olive brown, gfet'f1ishbI'own, and entirely pure while In the alb.) varlely, with fine, darker, radial fibril and sometimes the remains of the whi le veil. The wrface is Silky when dry, !>lightly vis- (OtIS in wet Wl'ather. Gills crowded and broad, while. tulning cream with age. 511pe elongated. firm, ~ o H19 more or less hollow, slightly thickened toward tile base, (O\'eted in hof- Izontal, gray-green zigzag bands on a while background. NOfmally very ample but capable of disappearing and appealS to be s!naled THE AGARICALES on the upper surface, whilf' Of Slightly greenish; valva oitf'n large, KIlled aM whi te, sur rounding a large bulb. Flesh while, yellow undl'1 the {utlde; faint odD( which is unpleasant in older spe<i- mens, mild flavor. POTENTIAl CONFUSION .. RUSSVLA VIRESCENS Greeo Cra,kmg Russula ED1HI f .. AGARICUS SILVICOLA Wood Mushroom EDI8U .. TRICHOWMA PORTENTOSUM Prncnnous TrKholoma \:;0181. TOXICITY 1'hi$ mushroom is deadly arwIlIas been the uuse 01 more de. than all thr othrr poisonous IiIIIgi PUI logelhfr . SFI ( IAL II ATl IRI S Thert is an mtirely white .... riety of the Duth Up, which looks ... ery limilar 10 1M Spring ArnJniu clmribtd btlow. HABITAT: forests and plantations 01 varioos de<iduous Uef!S (oak, beech, hazel nut, birch, etc.) and occMional1y Linder conifef\ from midwmmer thlough fall. Very common, espe<ially in the lowland!.. Found all over the world. SFI (IAI ff'A"Tt JRI S The ArnJniw Ire rnpotUibie lOr more th.m 90'10 of flu.] poiloninp by wild mIMI'OOIIII. The "riouinw of the poisonina: it in MCI relatioMhip with the weichl of the victim. lbil is why children are the mOlt vulner. ble md whm whole familie. are poisoned they art the first 10 suffer. About 1 'I. 01. (50 g) of <kadly . pean of """,nil. is tnough to kill . n adull, .boot the weighl of" SINGLE MUSHROOM. Symptoms do nOl lppcar until bttwttn six and 48 hours .fter ingestion. There is. rlpid hlltt of digestive disorders with nlusta, shivering, vomiting, dWThu , and JtomKh The symptoms IDly IIJI _en! clioY'. " I!1edicaI rumination wiD reveal more IItnou. prograaive dntruction 01 the lint.Treatment requirtl hospiuJiution may tvCn involve s1.iCh writ mtuurts u I Iivtr ITIrIspiant. Although thac Iw betn sipiSunt progrHI in Ihe tre&tmtnl of poiJonings ClUiItd by thellt m1.rShrooms, (.lIltS of death art Chltlndy rtported by the media in the fall, the htisbt of the picking "ison, npiaUy in Clltem Europe. THE AGARICALES ...ill... m AMANITA CITRINA Fal se Death Cap DESCRIPTION: H: 2'/.-5'/: in (7-14 em), 13: 2-4 in (5- \0 em). Cap domed then flallening, lemon yellow wi lh whitish or ocher plaques. entirely while in the alba varif!ty. Gills whi te or pale yellow. Stipe slightty thickening toward the base, pale yellow, with a wide. striated ring. also yellow, and a large bulb (up to 1 ',. in (3 em) in diameter) marginate, whitish, and more or ........ (overed with frag- ments of the yel- low volvO'. The flesh smells characteristi- cally of raw potato or celeriac. HABITAT: under deciduous lIees or cooilels., especially on sandy, acid soi l. lale summer through fall. Very common. bulb glcbulcu: __ _ I ,.""m", "P FDiBIlITY Not vcry good 10 till; it WlIS once (o05Wkml toxic, throvgh confusion with other AMANITA VERNA Spri"g Amanita IOXIUTY Thil mUlhroom is iusl as dudly as Duth Cap, but Ins WtU known MeolU" it isleS! common, at lUll in It is mort fnqutnt in tht Unittd SUo,". DESCRIPTlON:H: 2'/.4/. in (7 1 1 (m), 0: , 'I r 4'1 .. in (4 12 em), Cap OVOid or globulose. then hemi - spherical, eventually flattening. pule while, sometimes aeam or beige, smooth, rarely COWIe<! In debris of the white veil, mane, VIS' cid when Gi lls white. Supe smooth or my shghtly floccose, while; ling while. pendan\ <md per - Sistent, but often 10m. VoIva YOIu- and widl>, also while. Flesh while; odorless or Wllh a 1<1'nl, rather unpleasant odor, mUd lIa\lOl'. HABITAT: copses and airy forests 01 deciduous 1Iees. espe<ially undef oak, rarely under conifers: inditfer- entlo soil type. Mainly found in the sprifl9. but may be encountered In !>Urnmet', and even early fall . Fairly rare, and mainly found in southern pailS 01 the northem henuspOtre. Wtdespread. rOTfNTIAL (ONI \!SION .. AGARICUS SILVICOLA Wood MUihroom EDIBU .. LEUCOACARICUS LEUCOTIIITES Off-whne r'ruo! Mushroom fJ)lRII AMANITA VIROSA Destroying Angc:1 DESCRIPTI ON: H: 4-7 in (l0 18 em). 0: 2-l/. in (5-8 em)_ Cap domed 11'11 conol, with a wide umbo, ollen assymtuical or inClined, pure while and silky, viS- cid when weI. Gills bl'oad and white WIth Kaly edges. Stipe white, very downy, becoming hol- low and Sluffed with (ouony rlbefs in ok\ef specimens.. The ring is very high upon the stipe, some- times even anaclled \0 the gills. but It disappears fairly sooo; the bulb al the base is enveloped In a whi le. sac-like vowa. The lIesh Is while and Ihkl: al the center; young s!l(!Cimens ha'X! a faint odor which becomes unpleasant in older ones. The lIa'o'Or is mild. HABITAT: often undef conifers. espe<ially spruc!, ~ m t i m s undef decidUOLtS uees well as beech Of birch, on damp, acid SOi1. From ~ m m r IhlOiJgh early fall. Fauly common in northern regions aoo at altitude, raIl! elsewhere. THE AGARICAlES POTFNTlAI C.ONHJSION AGARICUS SILVlCOLA Wood Mushfoom EOIIU .. LfUCOAGARlCUS LEUCOTHITHES OFf-wllllc Parasol EDlW AMANITA OVOIDEA Ovoid Amanita DESCRIPTION: H: 6-10 in (1525 em), 0: 4/'10 in (12-25 em). IvOry GlP vef'/ thid; and fleshy, remaifling ovoid fOf a long tUTle. smooth, sometimes WIth a few thick scales and a shaggy mar- g,n. Gills wtlitlsll, shilggy at the edge. Stipe thick (up 10 2 in (5 em) white and floccose; ring very floccose, becoming det<lChed; ocher voIva wide and full. high Ofl the stipe, thick. flesh white and thid:; dis- tinclM! odor, mild and pleasant in young specimens, unpleasant in older ones. HABITAT: under de6duous trees. e'SpeCia11y oak, or under (ol'llfefs, pme, in well-l it, grassy woods. on limestone and saody soil, in warm, sunny locations. Fairly ComfTlOf1 in the Mediteffaneall region. rare elsewhere. Summer through fall. I-I>IBILITY NO! Vfl)' good to u.t; it musl bot Ulcn young, U oldn sptrimcns prodlltf naUSf THE AGARICALES .1l!. '" AMANITA VAGINATA Grisette DESCRIPTION: H:47 in (1018 em). 0' l /r4 in (4 10 em). Cap conical al f i ~ then expanding, always fairly umbonate; margin covered in long, deep s!Iiauons; gray to brun, maue, smooth, and generally without while plaques. Gills cra.vded, bfOad and whitt. Stipe long and slender (up to 8 in (20 em)), be<oming hol- low, thickening slightly toward the base where it is about ~ in (1 em) in diameter; pale gray, bare or slightly floccose, no ring. bUI with a narrow, white volva aroon<! the base, eXleoding 1 'b. 10 2 in (3 10 5 em) up the stipe. Flesh very thin under the cap mar- glO; odorless but wllh a mild lIavol. Poisonous rolW, good to U I when cooked, but t h ~ Beth is Ihin lnd & .. gilc. HABITAT: Deciduous forests, lOOfe rarely undef conifers. Summer through fall. FaIrly common and WIdespread. SPEC IAl FEATURES The Grisettc is typical of I group of mllShroomJ which have KVcral forms or varieties, the nu.in difference being the color of the ClIp. 1M commonest of thtrQ is mf Tallt'llY Crist-ttl d (A",,, .. ;r,, fjd .. ,,) which hu an oT3ngl or fawn cap. The stipe and volva art usu.ally srained IIoith thf 5IJIIC color u me Clp. II gl'OWl mainly wtdtr chestnut utes 011 acid 5Oils. Anodlcr future of the Cristll" i, Ihat they have no ring. AMANITA FULVA Tawny GriseHe The Tawny Griseue has the same character istics as the Griset1e, bot it differs in thaI the cap is oral'lge or fawn, darker in the centef ,smooth and shiny. The voIva and AMANITA CROCEA Saffron Griscnc DESCRIPTION: H: 48 in (10-20 em). 0: 2'1,4'/, in (6 12 em). Cap I'IemlspOefi(al at flfst. then flat, ollen umbonate, WIth a de.lfly Striated ITliIfgin; yelloworaf"l9l! 10 reddish OIaf\9t'. paler althe margin. Gills crowded and whitish. Stipe thickening slightly toward the base, bflUIe, bewrTllng hollow, the same cob as the cap and StIiped with flaky stipe are also sponed with fawn or orange. HABITAT: (\e(id. UOlIS or (ooifer' ous woods. espe- cially under chestnut on acid or slhce0u5 soil. Appears in early summer and lasts through fall. Fairly rommoo. Large votva, wtme on the outside, pale yellow Inside. FleYl while, orange ur.def the cutJC.lt; no pilllicu!al odor 01 navor. HABITAT: mainly under deciduous trees. often on grass verges on acid soil. Summer through fall. Fairly (ommoo in climates, unusual elsewhere. L THE AGARICALES AMANITA SUBMEMBRANACEA Gray Griseue DESCRIPTION: H: 2'/,-41 .. In (6-12 eml. 0: 1 'I, rldn (4-7 an), Cap deafty striated OYer aI m half !he area of the racius of the cap, aIM! tJO'Ml often WIth one (W f'M) metrbaroos shreds c:ilgIng to it, !he remaI'6 01 the Yl'iI. Gis v.tlIte and otMded. "" " ... edge It,. _ "'Ittly 10WiIfd the base, hollow, -Mlilt tIvough pale !1a'f. marked with zigzag strialicns. VoIva lobed, faifty frag- ile. pale fPllO p<* broMt. Flesh thick al the Cl'IlIer only; cxb "" ""''''''' HABITAT: IJlder collifetS, espedally spruce. On acid soil. SUtTvnef ttvcujl fall. Fair1ycommon inthe --""""" mon in area!.. AMANITA BATTARAE. A. UNBRINOLUTEA Yellow-brown DESCRIPTION: H: 4-6 in (10-15 em), 0: 21, 41 In (6-12 em), Cap conical sooo expandon9. wuh a central umbo SUfroundfd by a slight deprMsion, striated over coe third of the radius, yellow ocher then turning brCMll'lish-yellow. marked WIth a dali:er cirde in !he Cef11er. Gills blood, aowded and while. Stipe gradually thiCkening toward the base, long aod hoIkm wl1l1 age spotted Wl th!1ay on a pale back ground; while sheathli ke volva, deeply embedded in the soil. flesh white, thick in the center, thin elsewhere, odorless and mild in flaVOl. HABITAT: coniferous forests. espe<ially fir al'ld spruce, in the mountains. Rarer under de<iduous trees arid in mIXed woods in tnt lowlands. Summer through fall. Uncommon. DESCRIPTION: H: 4-6 in (10-15 em). 0: 2-6 in (5-15 em), Cap conical 1hef1 f1anened. often wl\h a shallow umbo; variable in colof. faWfl through very dark gray-brown, oflefl darker PLUTEUS ADMIRABIUS Admirablc Plutcus DESCRIPTION: H: 1',.-2',.' in (36 cm). 0 ; ',1'" 1'J. in (,-] em). Cap col'\yl!x then smooth and flat. except in the center where II is ...... unkled. orange-yel- low 10 ocher, Gills broad, pale yellow then pinkish. Stipe frag,le, smoolh al'ld yellow. HABITAT: Singly or In groups on rOiling wood. Summer Ihrough early fall. In North America only. PLUTEUS CERVINUS Fawn P]UICUS in lhe cenlef. Gills free, aO'Nded and wide, while at first. then pink. Sllpe solid, thicken ing toward the base-, with brown fibrils against a pale background. easily se-parable from the cap. Flesh Ihi<k and whi te. smelling slightly of radish. mild flaYOf. HABITAT: Singly 01 in smalilults on the (lit side of logs, sawdust, rotting wood. decidu- ous forests or in park!. From $piing thfOUgh fall Very frequent and wrdeipI'eitd SPI (IAI FFATIJRl'S The UO'Holored MUleus (Plurtus kOlli"IIJ} il anolher spedcl of Pluleu, with a smooth cap and white Jlem. THE ENTOLOMATALES VOLVAIIIELLA GLO/OCEPHALA Pink-$porcd Criscnc DESCRIPTION: H: 47 in (10.18 em), 0: 2'/o-4/,in (1-12 ern). Cap ovoid then comcal, later convex or expanded, white mouse-gray or gray-brown, smooth, Vliny wtlen dry and viscid wflen damp. Gills crO'Nded, bfOad and bowed, free from the stipe, pinkiSh-white then rusty pink or pmkish-brown. Stem thmnll'19 toward the srH IAI I I ATlJRES Anolhu species of VolvMiOI is rultiv,lIrd throughout $Outht,UI Asi.l on VlIIrious renuins or trops, KpttWIy rice. top, fibrillose and white, browmng at the end, with a very I.1rge, very "agile whilt to gray-brown vo","a. Flesh whitish, !offielling faintly of radish, mild flavor .. HABITAT: open spaces rich in organIC mal- tl'f. on lOlling vegetatlOfl. Summer through fall. !>OC11elrmes as late as De<embef. Fairly common and widespread. CLITOPILUS PRUNULUS Miller DESCRIPTION: H: 1',,] '/, III (48 em). 0: 1 '/,-4 in (4 10 em). Cap COIM!X at WIth a IIghtJy inrolled margin, then expanding wllh a Idrge umbo, 01 depressed in the (enter. the margin boming wNf and lOIn in place!>; com- EDIBilITY Good 10 U I, never wo rm-Ul t n SI'} (IAI FEATURES MiUer ofttn grows otIonpidc or Penny Bun Mushfoonu (&llluS 50 it is a good indiurIK of their
pletely while, velvety 0/ pruinose, rarely pale gray-whitE!. Very decur - rem gills, crowded, very supple when pressed with the fingers, !asily detachable WIth a flAgefnail, willie 01 pale beige, be<omrng pinl: upon Stipe soli and short, often (urved alld may some urnes be slightly swollen at the base. Flesh thick in Ihe center, very thin at tile edge. whil e. fragile and soft; very prOOOlJf)Ced odof and flaVO!' 01 fresh fl our, hence the common name HABITAT: In gfoops in welllil coruferous or deciduous woods.. La te summef through lOlli, mainly on acid soil. Very common and widesp!ead. POTFNTIAl CONFl ISION CLITOCYBE CANDICANS, C. DI1ALBATA, C. CERRUSSATA, ",lute Oltocybes wluch THE ENTOLOMATALES ENTOLOMA CLYPEATUM Shield-shaped Entoloma DESCRIPTION: H 2'f,-4'J. In (6-11 (m), 0: 1',.-4 in (310 an). Cap (oni(al then convex, margin often undulating and splrwng In piacM. flesh is film with a very pronounced umbo; the silky, fibrillose surface is beige through gray- bfown aod very pale when dry, becoming POTENTIAL CONFlJSION .. ENTOLDAIA LlVlDUM uVld Enlolon\,l POISONClUS II' INOCYBE PATOUILLARDII Rcd-5t.llnlllgJnocybt dark. gray-bfown when wet. Gills broad and well-spaced, white then dirty pink.. Stipe fib- rillose, whitish Of grayish. flesh wtute, lurn ing gray when wei. Rancid odcw, flavor mild and Ibuy. HABITAT: in scattered groups under thorn (hawthorn and blackthorn). hedger- ows. In parb and on grau Yl!rges. SPllng- lime. ComlTlOf1 and widespread . ENTOLOMA LlVIDUM wvi d Entoloma DESCRI PTION: H: 4 /.-8 in (12-20 em), 0: 1 J..6 in (8- 15 em). Cap hemispl\eucal or conical, be<omill9 convex and !'lfnlUally lIattening, thick and lumpy, with a margin that remains inrolled for a long lime, and is then flalteoed and sinuous. The stJ/fiJ(e is fibrillose and Silky, silvery-gray, ocher-gray, or gray-brown. The gills are very smuate, pale yellow lilefl salmon pIIlk, Slip! thick, swollen at thf base, rlblillose, aeamy-wtlnl!, graymg WIth age. Flesh white, thickening in the Cl'flter; odor and flavor of freY! flOtH, HABITAT: grows in rings or small groups. Sometimes two or three individuals ale fused 011 tile base. found on grass Yefge5 and well-lit deciduous woods. especially under oak, beech, and on clay 0100 lime- stooe soil. Late summer through early fall Uncommon but WIdespread. SPF.nAL FEATURES The Livid EntololTUl is responsible for many poisonings due 10 its 10 two edible specics, the Clouded Apric (Clirocrw I'/tut..ris) and Millcr (ClilOjoi/is '>nil/II/liS). It rewmblrl thr bur r in thr IIrong smtU of llour. THE ENTOLOMATALES .Jl!.. m ENTOLOMA CETRATUM Ocelot Entoloma DESCRIPTION H: 2-3/. in (5-8 em), Il '/.1 'Ii in (2-4 an). Cap ctncaI then Ranened. Wldl a striated m.;r- girl. a re<kl6h-br0Ml, bectrnrg ocher vhn dry, WIth a dirkef stain " the centet Gis the same a:b as the cap, then samon- pnk. SIIpI! bottle aOO I'dlow, al the base. coYefed II Uule rbils on a dad: bad- !1o.rd. Iljltly v.n.te al the tql FIe5il ro p.naAaf odor or fI.M:x. ENTOLOMA CONFERENDUM Star-spored Entoloma DESCRIPTION: H: 1 J..] J. in (J.8 an), o '/. 1 'I, in (2-4 em). Cap conKa] then convex and umbonate. dirty berge 'Nfl!!n dry, gray-brown and stri ated on lhe margin when wet. Gills beige then pinkish. Stipe hollow and brittle, often slightly thickened at the base, strongly stri ated with silvery fibrils a9,lIn51 a beige then brown background. flesh pale gril)', Wllh fainl odor and flavor. HABITAT: under conifers, undef de<idl.l!M on humid, acid SOIls, moor land and Summer through lall. U1l(ommon. HABITAT: pastures and Jawns. very wet clKiduous or corllferous forests. marshy pinewoods, especially in the moolllain!. Summer through fall. Com- mon and widespread. ENTOLOMA HIRTIPES Stinking EnloJoma DESCRIPTION: H: 3 J..4 ~ in (812 em). 0: 11.2'1. In (J.7 em). Cap conical, then flat tenlng with small POinted umbo. silky and reddish-bfown or dark bfown when damp, becormng pa!el when dry. WIth a sui- ated margin. Gills broad. while to pale brown. StJpe long ai'ld slender (4 in x 'I. in ENTOLOMA RHOOOPOLIUM Silky- n cm Entoloma DESCRIPTION: H: 3'/.-6 in (8 15 em). 0: 1 'Ir 4 In (4-10 em). Cap convex then expaoolng, dePfessed Of umbilicate in the center. beige in dry weather, turning graybrown when wet, with a margin that becomes uooulating WIth (10 em X 0.6 em)) expanding at tile bul boo, graybfown base sprinkled WIth white powdef at tile top. Rancid odor of I!sh oil. Flesh gray or pale brown, mild and floury flavor. HABITAT: In (onlfl'f- OIlS Of mixed woods on l i ~ l o n soil Spring. Fairly common. age, and wtlich is somellmes sUlo1tl'd, Gills creamywtllte then dark pmk. Stipe fr<lgiie, thmning shghtly toward the base and at the top, smooth, si llcy, and whitish. Flesh thin and white: no particular odor Of flavor. HABITAT: in groups in deciduoos woods, especially beech, somellmes undef corrifl'ls, late summer through lall, frequent, but COIn!TlOl'lef on hrghef ground, Widespread. THE ENTOLOMATALES ENTOLOMA SERICEUM Silky Enloloma DESCRIPTION: H: 1'/,-4 in (410 em), 0: 'f.-] in (2-5 em). Cap conical then convex with a small umbo, margin with lon.g striations ~ n wet, siltt gray when dry, dark brown almost black when we\. Gills sinuate, dirty white then dirty pink. Stipe thin, hollow, and friable, grayish with while fibrils Flesh gray; strong odor and flavor of flour. ENTOLOMA SERRULATUM Blue Entoloma DESCRIPTION: H: ,'/,-2'/. in (4-7 em), 0: '/,-l'/J in (1-4 em). Cap CDflical then convex but very often umbilicate or depressed in the center, felt ed or fjbrmose, dark bille-gray or blue-black. Gills very broad, pale blue then violet- brown, with saw-toothed e d g ~ Stipe ~ i d then hollow, smooth and silky, the same color as the cap, felled with white mycelium at the base. HABITAT: In meadows. on lawns, at road sides and on verges. in highland and HJw land. late summer through fall. Uncommon. HABITAT: lawn$ and welldrained grass- land, from lowland \0 highland, late sum- mer through fall. Common. DESCRIPTION: H: 2'/,-4'/ .. in (6-12 em), 0: 1",-3'1. in (3-8 em). Cap bell-shaped, then convex, finally expaoded, with or without a central umbo. The margin be<omes sinuate and splil. Sur face fibrillose Of finely granulose, bright red dish-orange or reddishbrown. Gills widely spa<ed on broad, yellow-orange then bright red. Stipe sometimes slightly bent and nar- rowing at the base, the same color as the cap or paler, sometimes displaying yellow filaments of the cortina. flesh golden; odor of radish or potato, slightly acid lIavor. HABITAT: de<iduous forests, espe<ially oak, sometimes under conifers (pines). on dry, add soil. In mO\Jntains and plains. From late summer through fall. Generally uncommon but may be abundant in some years. SPECIAL fEATURES This mll5hroom WM caUed tht Mountain Cortinarius, because it was thought that the name of the species (/lTtllllHU5) came from oros muning "mountain" in Greek. In fact, il is found in the plaifl$ as well as in Ihe mountains. The name is an allusion 10 a tropical shrub tropical named Annatto (lli,nn orr/II"",) whose $Ceds are exactly tht same color as this Cortinarius. TOXICITY Deadly. The symploms of poisoning do not manift'lll until thtte days after inge1uon, and in certain cases the first symptoms do not appt'ar unUl twO weeks !<lter. THE CORTINARIALES '" '" DESCRIPTION: H: 2'Ir 411 in (612 (m), e: l /r H in (4-8 em). Cooical or beIlshaped cap exp<JIdiIg late!; ..... th a IXlilted IJTbo, cbMTt orange brown, fa'Ml. or re<tjslt Gis wdety spacEd. the same coklr as the cap. StJpe /arty Ioog. tIlcIr.emg at the base I:trt ttming i'lthe !JCU1d; noQish with a fe.v faI'lt )doN cicLAar mats. Aesh or red, fiWll O!b d r.dsh ard mikl tliwoc CORTINARIUS TRAGANUS Stinking Cort inllrius DESCRIPTION: H: l/.41 in (812cml, 0: 24/. in (Soil un). Cap _"" """ _ ..."" "'" sillcy bbsh1iIac: V!iI thM city ........ te, more or less mixed ....,th tb. Wdet1 brqIl saffron gills, n.ming rust-<Clklred. Studt SPH. IAL FEATURES The Camphor ConinariU$ (IIJf1/_alus) i. vcry lIS stronger odor it fJltrcmdy unpkuant, and the Htsh is tinted bllW: or violtt. Tht giI1s arc' prior to III.lIlurity. HABITAT: I Ilumid and acid late summer through mid-fall UllCommon. stipe, tIickefwlg toward the base, bulbous and _ .... "'" .. "" FI!sh the same CDb as the gills.. darkef dart.ef In the stipe. Tht ocb is In.I!>UaI but hard 10 define, though rather but sorneumes frullY; biter 1IaYor. HABITAT: deciduous or corull'l'OUS Iorem, usually i'I the IllOlI'ltainS. on acid soil. Su'nrrM!r thrOlJl'jl mld-Ial. Common. CORTINARIUS ANOMALUS Abnormal Cortinarius DESCRIPTION: H ]/,4'/, in (812 em), o l 'J,. ]'.10 111 (H em), Cap COIWeX !hen expanded. WIth or WIthout it large umbo. with a regular then undulalrog margn gay.!oh-oche!. yt\Ic7N-brown, or red- dish, someumes viOlet on the margin, and 5pfinkled with brilliant specks hke miCa. Gills violet. soon turning rust-brown. Slipe ohen rwiCe as long as the diamelef of the tap, bending. thidefUAg toward the base, blue- violet toward the top. while Of reddish......t1ne !ow;vd the bottom. '!hefe are reddish ringS on the stipe v.tJidI disawear with age. The IIWI Is whlttsh-viOlet 111 the cap. viOlet al the lOP of the stipe; faint odor, mild 1Iavor. HABITAT: IfI groups in detiduoos f f ~ t s (bum) or beneath conifers (pinel. in the low- lands ard highlands.. Late summer through fall. Very common. THE CORTINARIALES ". '" CORTlNARIUS ALBOVIOLACEUS Mauve- tinted Cortinariu5 DESCRIPTI ON: H: i l.5'/, in (7-1 4 em), 0: l"r3',. in (4)8 em). Cap campanulate then flattening, often with a very large umbo, pale lila< or pale covered in a white vei l al first, then (N- ered in fibrils, but never viscid. Gills vio- let-gray then (wning reddish-brown. Stipe fairly thick, very swollen al the baM!, often slight bowed, the same color as the cap,wi th a white cortina becoming rust-spoiled toward tht! lOp. Flesh thick in the cenler of the cap, thin at the edge. pale violet or bluish, al the top of the stipe; odorless. mild fl avor. HABITAT: often in groups in deciduous forests (oal:, beech, chestnut). some times under conifer$. Prefers acid soi l!.. Summer through fall. Very common. ----------------------------------------------------- CORTINARIUS SEMISANGUINEUS Semi-sanguine Cortinarius DESCRIPTION: H: 1-4 In (S-10 em). 0: l ',.2'I,in (37 em). Cap campanula!!! then flauemng with a small umbo, surface shiny and covered in cinnamon or yellow-bmwo fibrillose granu- lations, somel rmM darker in the center. Slipe long and flexible, pale yellow, with a few reddish fibrils. sometimes pinkisll- orange at the base; thin, yellowish cortina. Flesh golden yellow or ocher olive; odor and flavor of radish. HABITAT: coniferous or mixed lowland and moun tain forests. In the fall. (ommon. CORTINARIUS ClNNAMOMEUS Cinnamon Cortinari us DESCRIPTION: H: 2-4 in (5-10 em), 13: 1)\-21' in (J.6 ern, Cap convex then flattened. often umbonate. donamonroIored, olive Of reddish-brO'Ml. Gills yellow-orange, IIJming rust when mature. Slipe flexible, thickening toward the bonom, hollow, ~ I o w 10 reddish. scaly Icmard the txmom. ~ lemon yellow; faint odor and bitter flavor. HABITAT: in groups in cooiferous forests (mainly spruce and pine), rat"l'I under deciduous t r ~ 00 acid and very humid, MIl boggy ground. late surrroer throogh lall. fairly (om' moo and widespread. THE CORTINARIAlES CORTlNARIUS ARM/HATUS Red-banded Corti nari us DESCRIPTION: H: 46):; in (10-17 (m), 0: (5-12 (m). Cap flattened bell-shape, neYly, reddish and COYefed with very small, slightly darker sca!.s. often beanng the remaInS of the red on the margl1l. Beige gills soon be<oming rust roklred. Stipe firm, full, Wlth a large bulb, ringed with brick-red. oblique elr- ell's. (oulna while, abuodanl but ephemeral Flesh pale brown, odor of radish, mild Of bit- ter flavor. HABITAT: In grCMJps under de<i<Iuous trees. mainly birch on heathlaod and very acid and humid soil, in highlands or lale SlJrnmer through fall. Fairly common. CORTINARIUS TORVUS Curved Cortinarius DESCRIPTION: H: in (8 14 em), 0: 2-4 in (S-10 em). Cap hemispheficalthen convex. fleshy, wl!h line bfown or bfown flbfils. sometimes $lightly viO leI. Gills thick and very widely spaced, gray-violet then fUst Stipe thickening al tile base, ohen curved. vioielloward the top. covered under fleath WIth a whitish meath the top of which is incurved to 101m a ioOIt of ring. FIWI gray and thid: in the centef, violet at the top of the SlIpe; Strong and unpleasant odor and mild RaYOf. CORTINARIUS HINNULEUS Fawn Cortinarius HABITAT: deciduous forests, mainly bee(h. Summer tJwough fall. Very common. d insk sJrrnlh r-'wg nwg Itt'" II.( lop c( rl!t Ulrt DESCRIPTION: H: In (7-12 em), 0: 2-3;( in (5-8 em). nenl OOlbo;rod ll\ill'gi'llruwd lor a long tiTle. yeIow ocher to reish-l:raMl, r.t:rlo5e. Gills and wKIe. violet 011 first then the same roIor as the cap. Stipe ochef, COYl'Ied In rings 01 whrtiSh veil forming a wNte ring aro.m the ITIIddIe 01 the stipe. Flesh ......tNtrsIt. ooged WIth violet 011 the lop of the Sbp@;odorol eanh or mold. mild flavor nming t:.tter altef a few IIlOIllI!fIIS 01 dlewJ1g. HABITAT: 1Il all types 01 forest and on all types 01 soil, in plains and mountair6. Summer through fall . Common. THE CORTINARIALES '" '" CORT/NAR/US PALEACEUS Straw Corti narius DESCRIPTION: H: (48 em), e: (23 em). Cap C(lmpanulate 01' coni cal, then flattening, with a large brownish-gray pointed umbo, be<om- ing much paler when dry, COVf!re<\ with fine poillted ....nite scales which become scarcer with age. Gills cream then turning brown. Stipe long and sinuous, brownish-gray striped with white, sometimes with ~ white ring which is more Of less apparent Flesh CORT/NAR/US FLEX/PES fl exibl e-stem Cortinariu5 DESCRIPTION: H: I%J:,4in (4-8 em), 0: \':.1'/.(24 cm). Cap conkalthen flat- tened, with a poinlPd umbo and slightly fibrillose sur face, blackish-brown when weI. paler in dry wealhet. The paler margin is covered wi th the remains of the white veil. Gills grayish to rust bfown wi th lilac highlights. Stipe thin, pale gray- brown, sometimes tinged with pale lilac at the top, and carrying while flakes thin, dark brown when wet, ocher in dry conditions, with a strong odor of geranium. HABITAT: on mo!.S in coniferous Of mixed forests of birch and conifers. on ~ y wet ground. Fall. Ul'lCommon to fairly common. arranged in rings except at top. Flesh brown or violet-brown, lilac at the top of the stipe; odorless and fla- vorless. HABITAT: in small tufts or singly, under spruce, often in moss, alongside birches or in very humid soil. late summer and fall. Fairly fre- quent in places. CORTINARIUS MULTIFORMIS Multirorm Coni narius DESCRIPTION: H:2'I.-4 in (6 IO em). 0:2 4 in (5-10 em). Cap fleshy, COIM?X f a 00g time, then flat- tened, with a margin thaI remal/'lS nolled fa a 00g time. VISCid at first. fc1'Ml ocher. relish- oc:hef, later darkeni1g to cafe...au-/alt Striated with ~ fbiIs an:! with an op<qlE! Yl'ill'<tlich rna9.:s the tr 01 the cap. Gils v.flnJsh or beq. then rust-I:JO'Ml. Stipe ....nile 0' beige. ~ This is a (olllive sp ies, consisting of several fonns and varieties. erw.g ., a more or less marginate u ~ ~ 10 HI in (2 \0 3 011) in diametef. Flesh white. yellowing. faint in 'fO'JI9 specinens, bKcm- iN;! more or less fruity Of m ling of honey 'Nith age ood mild in """. HABITAT: under decidllOUs or coniferous trees in lowland or mountains. Summer and fall. Common. THE CORTINARIALES CORTINARIUS CAERULESCENS Blue Cortinarius DESCRIPTION: -==--......... "" H: 2'.4 il1(7-10 0: 2 ... 4'. i'I{6-12 011), Cap hemispherical, very fleshy, gray blue or gray-vio let, discolOfing in ochef j patches. and striated with well-defined fibflls. Gills crowded, blue-viole! then more or less rust-colored, with an irregular saw-toothed edge. Stipe fibfll lose, the same color as the cap, with a very swollm bulb measuring up to 2/, in (4 cm) in diameter. flesh pale blue-violet, pale ochef on the surfa<e; odorless. HABITAT: under various de<iduous tlees and on limestone soil. Fall. Fairly common bul kKalized. CORTINARIUS PURPURASCENS Purplish Cortinari us DESCRIPTION: H: 2iH); in (612 em), 0; 26 in (515 em). Cap hemispherical then expanded and lumpy with undulating margin, fleshy, viscid, reddishbrown with margin Illat is some- limt5 violet and fibrillose. Gills violet then lust becoming violet when IUbbed, Stipe vio- let, very fibrillose, even striated, turning del'pe:r viOll't; bulb falrty large. VIOlet flesh, the (olor intensifying when l'xposed to ~ air. faint odOf, mild flaVOf. HABI TAT: under conifers and somellmM under deciduous trees on limestone soil. Fall. fairly (ommon. DESCRIPTION: H: 1[2:4 in (47 em), 0: 22:4 in (S7 em)_ CORTINARIUS GLAUCOPUS Greenstemmed Conin:lrius DESCRIPTION: H- 24',. In (512 ern). 0; 24 in (5 10 ern). CORTINARIUS CALOCHROUS Many.colored Cortinari u5 Cap convex soon llattening. pale lemon to yet. k:m doned Wlm red in the CeI'lll!!'. Gills -"'" -,.. or rust-wloled, Wlm saw-toothed ed:jes. Stipe in (1 em) r1 14l to 1;( to 2H'I (3:1 4 an) at the bull IMlite theo yeIkMo or ochef; bulb v.tl1l1Sh and ITIaIglnate; COllII'I(I ocher and abundant. Flesh v.tlite, lilac. at the top of the oO::IrIe!.s and with a mild 1IaYor. HABITAT: undef beeches, but SOITIe\llTleS i'I rrned woods on irnestone soil. Fall. fairly common. Cap convex, verv firm, Wlm an inrolled mar gin, yellow orangeor fawn, With redd"M, well defmed fibnls. Gills pale blac at first then rust<olored. Slope short and mid::. bluish or lilac. at the top, yellowisl'!white toward the base, With a narrow, conical. marginate bulb. Flesil firm and v.tlltl!.h, bluISh at the top of the Stipe; farn! odor and mrld flavor. HABITAT: in groups or circle!. in coniferous at all ailitudes on limestone soil; summer through early fal!. Common, THE CORTINARIALES DESCRIPTION: H: in (7-12 em), 0: 2'h-4 in (6- 10 em). Cap convex then eKPlding, though the mar gin remains inroUed, viscid in wet weather. bfil liant sulfur yellow, reddening ffom the center. Gills brig1t yellow, tIl!f1 arM!. Stipe ending in a vel)' lafge yellow bulb, which later turns broYm. Flesh pale violet at !he lOp of !he stJpe, SI.ifls yeIow in the bull. v.fute 10 pale yellow eIseoMlefe; plmanl ab. mild ftawr. FOIBILITY but therr is I KnoU5 rUk of pOlrntial confusion with the Ru plrndrnt Cortinarius whkh is dudly. CORTINARIUS SPLENOENS Resplendent Cortinari us DESCRIPTION: H: 2-4 in (510 em). e 1 H'ldn (4-7 em) Cap hke that of Ihr Elegant COftinarius but more golden. Gills bright yellow then rust HABITAT: beech fOIesl5 on limestone SOil. fall. Fairly common. II> CORTINARIUS SPLENDENS Cortlllllrius colofed upon malUlity. Stipe has a large margInate, wlfur yellow bulb, tinged with Mt toward the bottom, COflina lemon yeI. low. The flesh is bright yellow all over and unifOfm. Odorless, mUd flavor. HABITAT: In small groups in de<iduous forests. 00 limestone soil. f all. Url<ommon. CORTINARIUS RUFOOLIVACEUS Reddish-olive Coninarius DESCRIPTION: H: 2'/..-4YO in (612 em), o in (712 em). Cap IIemispheriCal then convell, 'lisdd, brownish-red or russet, violet Of olive al the edge. Gills very crowded, olivaceottS then cinnamon. Stipe yellow- green, violet at the top, but often el'Ulrely vioIi!l due \0 lhe abundan\ cortina; bulb marglRiite and leddening. Flesh firm and thid:, Mly pm!:: in the bulb, purplish'ItoIet; lain! odor and billef laSU!_ HABITAT: in small groups in deciduous forMIs, especially oak and on limestone SOiL Fall. Fairly commoo. CORTINARIUS OELIBUTUS Glulinous Cortlnarius DESCRIPTION: H: in (712 em), 0: 3-8 em. (ap convex tllPn eKpaAded, very viscid, lemon to golden. Gills violet then orange to cinnamon. Stipe elongated, thlCl::erung into a bulb at the base, whitish, somelllTle5 bluish at the lop. edged wnh filaments tinted orange yellow. tilac flesh in young sped- mens. turning whiush but often the top 01 the stipe retams ils violet color; famt odor, not partICUlarly charactensuc. mild or b.lttf ""'" HABITAT: In groups in de<iduous for-MtS often with birch and bee<h and in mixed fOlests in the plainS and mountains. Late summer through fall. Common. THE CORTINARIAlES CORT/NARIUS TRIVIALIS CortinllriUJ DESCRIPTION: H: 3'.'-71' in (8- 14 em), 0: 1,/,.4 in (410 em), Cap conical and convex then fi anened and more or less lumpy, very viscid, yellow ocher, fawn or brownish-yellow. Gills grayish- oche!' or grayish-viOlet, $00I'I turning rusty, hicldef1 at first by a .... sed cOIlma Stipe very rigid and very long. up to 6 in (IS em), INnner al the base, very visOO, nnged with cilculaf ridges. flesh pal! veJIow, ocher brOMl in the Iowef part of the SlIpe; odorless, mikl flavor. HABITAT: in large groups in deciduous woods beh, birch). Late wmmef Ihroogh lall. Common. HEBELOMA CRUSTULIN/FORME Poison Pic DESCRIPTION: H. 24 in (5-10 on), 0: 2 4 in (510 em), Cap convex then llattening. margI'I remaining "oiled fOf a long bme, often LITIbonate, Slraw-<Olored, ocher or red, darl:er in the cen- ler, Igh&1 viscid when 'oWl Gills the same color, weeping tlITj Bws II yooog specimens which dry leaving a brfNKI maR. Stipe :4- h in (1 10 2 an) in ciamete., !>lightly bullous and flocco5e at the top. flesh thick and white; IT(Ife Of less stroog CIder 01 radish. bitter taste HABITAT: 111 in damp places If\ decid- uous or cOfIiferous forest$. Summer through fall. Very common. HEBELOMA MESOPHAEUM Brown-centered Hcbeloma DESCRIPTI ON: H: 24 in (S-IO em). 0: 1 "A2% in (3-7 em). Cap convex then flattened often umbonate, $lightly viscid in wei .....eall\er, typically two- colored. The centl.'f is reddi$h-brO'M1 arod the outer part paler due \0 the presence of the remains of the whitish veil (cortma). Gills pale, subsequently turning brown. Stipe whitish, latl.'f reddish-brown al the baw. with a flbril- w annular ZOIle al the base. Flesh white, ochef 10 brown at the baw of the stipe: strong odor of radiVi, biner flallOl, HABITAT: in groups on lawns, in parh. In grassy clearings in deciduous or ()(literou!> forests, mainly in the mountains. lale sum- mer through fall. Fairly common, HEBELOMA SINAPIZANS Mustard Hebeloma DESCRIPTION: H: 4-8 in (1020 em), e: 2'/.6 in (115 cm). Cap convex then expanded. red- dish-ocher IOOX \0 pale brown, paler <l t lhe margin. Gills befge or adler, then rust bra-NIL Stipe whitish and long, up \0 8 in (20 em), swollen at SPECIAL FEATURES Looks li ke Poi$on Pie (IItbflomR r rustj/iHi(ormr) but larger. The cone of fibers visible at the top of tht stipe in vertical section, is vt ry dininctivc in this species. (he base and becoming hoi low. flesh whitish; a cone of libels descends from the center 01 the cap into the top 01 the hollow stipe; ocb of radish. very peppery taste. HABITAT: in large groups undef bee<h. oak. or hornbeam. or in parh Summet and lall. Common. THE CORTINARIALES HEBELOMA RADICOSUM Rooting HebeJoma DESCRIPTION: H; 21'8 in (720 em). e: 2-4% in (Sll em). Cap convex, fleshy, visrous. reddish ocher . slightly scaly. Gills crowded, pale al first then browning rapidly. Stipe ~ to 1 in (1 to 2.5 em) t h i ~ INith a scaly, .....tlite ring aocl powdery at the lop. the same coo iK the cap and coy- efed with scales belatv the ring, swoHen at the base 001 with a thick pseodorrhiza ....tlid1 roots into the soil. flesh white with a very Stfong odor of bit- ter almonds, mild flavor. HABITAT: deOOlIOOS forests, mainly beech. Summer through fall. Fairly common. ALNICOLA MELINOIDES, NAUCORIA ESCHAROIDES Yell owish NaucQria DESCRIPTION: H: 2-3'0' in (5-8 em), 0: IH.4. in (1-3 em). Cap convex then flat, sometimes umbonate, the margin becoming striated then urldulat- ing, yellowish-red or dirty ocher when dry, reddish-brown when wei, darker in the cen- ter. Gills crO\Yded, ocher al first then taking on a dark brown coloralion. Stipe long and slender (about n;x 'A. in (7 x OJ em)), the same color as cap, but darken- ing from the base with age, and covered with very fine down at the top. The small bulb is paler at the base. Flesh odorless. slightly bitter. HABITAT; in large groups 011 mo!.S in damp shady areas with alder or willow on r i ~ e r banks. Summer through fall. Common. Bittersweet lnocybe DESCRIPTION: H: 1'102 injlS cm), 0: % 2 in (2 5 em), Cap (onvex. eventually flat tened, nol fleshy fibrillose and scaly, yellow ochef or laWfl, at first <overed with a while cortina. Gills ocher then brown. Stipe cylindri(al and Ylorl, the same (00 as the tap, and IiI! It, octasioflillly bealing the remains of a <O(tina when young, and sometimes a faint (0' lony ring. Flesh pale brown; faint odm and mole 01 less biller flavor. HABITAT: in thinly wooded areas, bare ground, fallow land, afld laWflS. Summer through fall. Common. INOCYBE RIMOSA, I. FASTIGIATA Hoarfrost Inocybe DESCRIPTION: H: 1\( 2'/0 in (37 cm), D: lH'IO in (38 (m), Cap conical, then more expanded with a large pornted umbo; the surfa<e is ~ r y fib rillose. (ra(ked, straw colmed, pale yellow m ocher, and the margin crads deeply with age, Gills crowded, yellowgreen or yellow gray, then turning brown, with white edges. Stipe paler, stained with ocher at the base, pruinose or slightly s<aly at the top. White flesh, with a faint but unpleasant odOf. mild. slightly biller flavor. HABITAT: deciduous forests, sometimes of conifers, especially on grass ~ r g s 0( forest (Iearings, on welldrained sandy or limestone soil. Summer through fall. Common. THE CORTINARIALES 2l!.. 259 INOCYBE PATOUILLARDII Red-Staining Inocybe DESCRIPTION: H: 23'h in (59 em), 0: 1',<:-2 ".' in(3-8cm), Cap conical, umbonate arrd fibrillose, ~ t ting at the margin, whitish to strawcol - ored, reddening to the touch and with age. Gills pale, then brown, reddening when damaged Of rubbed. Stipe sturdy, 'II to %in(l to2.5cm) in diameter, white and red. Flesh white, reddening in the stipe when CUI, and mild flavor. HABITAT: in well-lit woods, footpaths. clearings. and parks. late spring through early fall. Uncommon to lairty common depending on Ihe year and the location. , . SPECIAL fEATURES This mushroom can he identified by the way ('\'cry part of il turns red cithu 10 the touch or naturaU), with age. It is vcry poisonous and has ullSed dUlhJ. POTFNTIAL CONFUSION .. CALOCY8E CAAJBOSA 51 CWIj!C'S Mushroom EOIBLE .. fNTOLOAlA CLYPEATUAI, E. APRILE, E. SEPIUM Sprmg Emolomas EDIBl.I: DESCRIPTI ON: H: 1'II-3'.1i In (4-8 cm), 0: 1 ''':-2'11 in (38 em) Cap cooical then flaner, WIth pointed umbo. and reddish-brown fibrils ()1 a oeam bad::. ground, deeply oacked in pla<es, sometimes INOCYBE CALAMISTRATA Crimped Inocybe DESCRIPTI ON: H: 2-3'11 in (58 cm), 0: 23'.1i in (5-8 cm) . Cap campanulate or coovex, dark brown, covered in upturned dark scales, gills broad, whitish but soon lurning reddishbrown, stipe often lWiste<J, dark bfown like the cap, covered in ere<t scales, ohen with darkblue base. FI<!sh white but pink when cut, blue green in the base 01 the stipe; odor unpleas- ant, mild flavor. HABITAT: under de<idoous or coniferous trees. often birch or spruce on very damp soil. Summer and fall. UncomrTlO/'l. INOCYBE MACULATA Spotted lnocybe right to the centef. Spotted with white in ~ n g spedmens.. Gills turning oIive-gray . Stipe thick ening at the base. sometimes bulbous and fib- rillose, white bul reddish in the center. brcmn ing wim age and from the top. Flesh has a specifK: cxb" thai is hard to define. HABITAT: under deciduous trees (horn- beam, beech) on damp, limestone soil, on paths and in ~ glO'les. fall. Fairly common. THE CORTINARIALES 260 2" INOCYSE CORYDALINA Green-capIXd lnocybe DESCRIPTI ON: H: 3'-'-5'1: in (8-13 (m), 0: 1110-2% in (4-7 em). Bell-shaped then flattened, umbonate, fibril lose cap. cream at first tt-..!n turning brown, with a pale green umbo. Gills white, turning gray. Stipe long, the base swollen into a bulb, white al iirst, then striated with brown f j b r i ~ very strong, unusual fruity odor, mild f1aVOf. HABITAT: singly in deciduous forests 0f1 limestone or non-acid soil. late summer through fall. Fairly common. INOCYSE PUSIO Dwarf Inocybc DES CRIPTI ON: H: 110 in (25 em), 0: 'h- l'-' in (1 -3 em), Cap very fibrillose Of streaky with a wide umbo, brownish, with a filac margin. Gills pale gray then gray- brown. Stipe plumose at the extremity, especially in young specimens, with a small bulb at the base, ochef OJ violet al Ihe lop in young spe<:i - SPf.CIAL FEATURES The odor i5 5imilar to that of Corydalis a spring Bower from which it has receivrd its botanial tpithcl. mens, with a few reddish fibrillose fiI aments. Flesh lila<-colored at the top of the stipe; odor unplea!>ant. HABITAT: under dedduous trees or spfuce on very humid soil. Summer through fall . Common. INOCYBE LACERA Torn-cap lnocybc DESCRIPTION: H: 1 -2'-' in (1I6 em), 0: %-1'h in (2-/1 em). Cap conical, and dov.ny, 'Nith an iflrolled, split margin. reddisld:rown 01 grayish- brO'M'l. sometimes gayishyellow. Gills rust-co!- Ofed, with v.t1ite edges. StipeatnJI '" in (4 mm) wide, $lightly bulb0u5. devoid of down, with a cortina in the )OOO!l !.p@dmen, odlet bIad:en- log al the base. FIWI pale in the cap, darker in the stipe; mild fla..I:lr. unpleasant odor. INOCYBE GODEYI Gooey's lnocybe DESCRIPTION: H: In (/I-7 em), 0: 1'- 1 'rS in (2-4 (m). Cap conical then flattening IYilh a central umbo, fibrillose or streaky. often spHt along the margin, cream or beige. l)e(omif"lg reddfsh orange. Gills the same shade as the cap, Stipe with marginate bulb. while then striated WIth red. Bulb remaining ....nile. flesh while, redclefl ing in contact wIll the air; strong and unpleas- ant odor. acrid taste. HABITAT: deciduous forests. mat\ty beech. 00 limestooe soil. FaR. Fairtj ccmmon WI the south. HABITAT: moorland, on bare soil beside paths. on sandy, poor soil. Fall. Fairly common. THE CORTINARIALES 262 '" INOCYBE GEOPHYLLA Common White Inocybc CCIIIlftlll lflliu IrIOCJw, lilacina ,-an'c'l" SPECIAL n .ATURF.S This sptcies contains many "arietiu, the commonest of which i5 the lilllciwa varifly, which is purple cxctpr for the umbo, which remains ocher. DESCRIPTION: H: l Id '/. in (306 em). 0: 'lr 2'h in (1 -4 on). Cap conical and then flanen ing with a prominent umbo and smooth, whi le, si lky surface, sometimes al first and ocher on the umbo. Gills crowded and swollen, cream or pale gray, then brownish-ocher. Stipe long and slen der, swollen into a small bulb at the base. At first covered with a lar!je tortilla, then fibrillose and wi th a downy lop. Flesh white or <ream, unpleasant odor aod mikl flavor or slightly acrid flavor. HABITAT: de<:iduous forests, especially (I(l clay and limestOlW soil. Summer through fall. very common. INOCYBE ASTEROSPORA Scar-spored Inocybc DESCRIPTION: H: 2'/.-4 in (610 em), a: I'I.-2'/. in (3-6 em). Cap conical then flatlened and umbon- ate, split up \0 the umbo, reddish Of reddish-brown, bul with white flesh showing through the cracks. Gills dirty beige then cinnamon. Stipe slender, entirelv pruinose and striated, reddish, orange or brownisll-red, ending abruptly a1 thl' base in it flauened white, turnip-shaped bulb. Flesh pale reddisll, dark.er in the stipe; no particu- lar odor. ROZITES CAPERATA Wrinkled Razites DESCRIPTION: H: 3"::.6 in (8-15 em), 0: 2'/' 4'/.in (612 em). Cap gioIJUose then camp<wuAate, very IWrj in the centet; ....,th a wrinkled or Unpy M.xe. except in the centel; or ocher; the striace is oovered 'Ni!h a v..tlfte or bIuish.....tUte Good to ral bUI onu wormralrn. Thr fibrous sopt' should br disc"nkd. HABITAT: under dedduous trees. I! appears to show it preler- ence for hazelnut and beech. fall . Very common. bulb and f'/wnt'/ da.Yn 1'I)0J09 specinens arxI this persisl5 in the center 01 the cap in mattxe spedmens. Gills pale men ocher, with ragged edges. Stipe wlbous or ttxkeoed at the base. slightt,o 00wny abcM! the striated arxI persiste!ll ring. Flesh v.tVtish; pleasant 000r ard mild /Iayor, HABITAT; in in coni:ferous woods (pine. 5pIlKe) or deOOJous woods (oak., beech) on acid or sandy soil. late summer through fall. Fairly common in midmountain. THE CORTINARIALES GYMNOPILUS PENETRANS Penetrating Gymnopilus '" 165 DESCRIPTION: H: 2'-'"4 in (7-10 em), the (1tUld: also on the cooes. SUnmer ttw.ql 0: 1 ''' 2% in (3-7 em), fall. Vefy amron. Cap COIM'X then ~ r ~ yeikm- cxange to rust, paler at the eOJe. Gis yeik:HJ then brc.v.nistHlrar. ~ thickenirg from top to Ixmom, .....tIitish to yebN with c:Iarm fiOOIs, arxJ base OM'I'ed i'1 v.t.ite ibMl; small. fragile, faint mg. Flesh wtlitish. 00criess.n:l very D'ner. HABITAT: ':i'gty IX in tufts on rotti'g t:.anches a twigs of conifers, scmetrnes pooiatj 00ried i'1 GYMNOPIWS SPECTASILIS Fiery Agaric DESCRIPTION: H: 47" in (10-18 an), 0: 2-6 in (5-15 on). Cap COO'o'eX, aange-yeiow to fawn. With fed ti!.h fibrils. Gils !.i'wte. tQ;;It yebY, then f\/SHoIored, brOWl'WlgIO the 1OI.dI. Stipe thick. 'Nidef al the base, With a Mg. IUS! to yeIbN; flesh did: and fim. v.fIittsh 10 pale yellow, faint odor and bitter 1LMlr. TOXI( lTV Poiwnous and Su,pcClcd of bring responsible for fOmr srrious caStS of poisoning. HABITAT: 11 smailufts or snjy, at the base
_ ... """ """ 01 cII!cdJous Irees, fare!' on cavffn. Sum- fTl@fttvoojlfall. ""....",. CREPIOOTUS MOLLIS Soft Crepidotus DESCRIPTION: 0: in (2-7 em), Cap bell-shaped 01 expanded into shell or whitish to beige whefl dJ)'. ocher to brownish-glay when damp. Surface coYe\'ed wuh a very viscid detachable film. Gills crowded, whitish then brown, radiatil"lg from the point of attach ment. Slip! or very W>rt and !;lIefal Flesh ge\atlflOOS. HABITAT: in imbriCated or tiered groups on dead wood, SlUmps or fallen branches of variOus dr<iduous !fees.. Pfesent all yeal fOUnd. Very common. THE CORTINARIALES .l!!.. '" CREPIDOTUS VARIABILIS Variable Crepidotus DESCRIPTI ON: 0: '.'-1\0\ in (O.S-3 em). Cap pure white and kKloey-shaped, felted; upper surface anached to the support. so that the fungus has its gills uppeonosl. The gills radiate from the point of anachmenl and change from cream to pinkish-red, and finally to cinnamon. The stipe is abseil!. The flesh is thin.white. and odorless. This species is inedi- ble mainly due to its small size. HABITAT: in tiered groups Of aligned along Very common in the fall, though il occasion- branches and twigs of deciduous tretS, espe- ally perslsls throughout the year. cially in mushwood or in maS5ed branches. GALERINA LAEVIS Smooth Caleri na DESCRIPTION: H: in (2-4 em), 0: in (0.5- 1 em). Cap remaining (OO\Ielt for a k:log time, yellow ocher in dry weather, tlXJ'ling red:lish-b'own in the wet. The gills can be seen through the transparent cap. due to the thinness of the flesh. Gills spaced, ocher yellow. Stipe pale yel- low with si lky white fibrils, a maximum of :a: in (2 mm) thide. very thin. HABITAT: On mossy lawns. Summer through fall, Very common. SPECIAL FEATIJRES Mushrooms of the Galcrina genus are difficult, if not impossible, to idtnrify with the naked eyt . DESCRIPTION: H: 1 %-3'.4 in (4-8 eml. 0: (2-7 em). GALERfNA AUTUMNALfS Autumn Galera DESCRIPTION: H: 1'1,.3'.4 in (H em) 0: %-2'''\ in (H em). Very similar to the Marginate Galela described above, different mainly in thaI ill cap is viscid. HABITAT: on the dead branches of coniferous or decidl.lOus Ire(!s. t ate summer through fall. Uncommon. GALERfNA MARGfNATA Marginate Galera Cap hemis!flerical then eoovex, smooth. yelloN ....t.en tty, brownish-c<her ...men 'Net with a dearly Slriated margin. Gills aeam then cilnarroo. Stipe slender. often thid.ened al the base. ocher QIilY,radiated with Dngitudinal fitr n!s, arK! with a small riN;I mat with age. Flesh stroogtv of 1Iour. HABITAT: often in large groups on the dead wood of conifers. sometimes on decid uous trees. summer through fall. Common. THE CORTINARIALES ". '" STROPHARIA AERUGINOSA Verdigris Agaric DESCRIPTI ON: H: 211-4 in (610 em), Q: l \OAin(J.8cm). Cap coovex Ihen very viscid, green or blue-green, with shreds of white, espe- dally around the edge. Wilh age, the shreds lend to disappear and the cap takes on a pale )'1!lIow to yellow- ocher tint. The gills are whitish at first, then violet, bul the edge remains white, The white or blue-green stipe has mlKh denser while shreds Ihan those 01 the cap. 1\ has a membranous riog. which SOOI1 turns violet-brown from the spores. White my<elial cOfds are visible al the base of the stipe when it is uprooted, flesh while, bluish at the base of the stipe; practically odorless and mild in tlavor. HABITAT: in groups in dedduou5 and coniferous forests on soil rich in SPECIAL HAnJRFS Blue .... garic (SIrof,llIIrill clltrNka) is similar but the ring is much less marked, even in young specimens, and is often absrnt. The Gills do not have a white edge when malurie, and the cap is less scaly. Ofgtlnk malter, where animals have been and in well-fertilized paS\Ufes. Summer through fall . Very com- moo ami widespread. '\ .,,,,,,,h nilS r -- cords TOXICITY Suspemd of being poisonous. This mushroom was long considered edible but poor, bUI il would be wise to avoid eating il. STROPHARIA SQUAMOSA, PSILOCYBE SQUAMOSA Scaly Cap DESCRIPTI ON: H:2A-4h in (6 12 em). !il:ll.-2'J, in (3-6 em). Cap hemispherical men COlWeX, sligltly viscid. yelloY.ish-red or fol'Ml, with COOO!Iltric ...mitish scales on the margin in )OOIlg spedmens. Gills broad pale then tUfning via- 'Nith white edges. Stipe IoN;! and sIen- da hoIk:7.v and r9d. white WIth a shaggy, stri- ated ring. edged with white scales ltIder the ring. at)ainst a brO'Ml backgroond. flesh pale and SI'I'lE!!ling of humus; mik! f\ao.n, HABITAT: on debris in decidL()US or on leaves. Fall. Fairly common. STROPHARIA CORONILLA Crowned Strophari a Cap hemlsphencal then convex and fleshy, pale to bright yellow or ochef, silky In dry weathei, viscous 'Nhefl wet, margin sometimes Gills pale brO'Ml at first then violet brown. edges remaining white. Stipe sturdy, 'Nith a white, striated ring, IUlning brownishblack., Flesh thick and white; slight or:k:lr, mild flavor. HABITAT: dry meadows. grazing land, flE!lds. roadsides, clearings and DESCRIPTI ON: in (3-5 cm). 13:1.'- edges of forests. Suml11E!f through fall. Fairly 2'.' in (3-6 em). common and widespread, THE CORTINARIALES STROPHARIA SEMIGLOBATA Round Cap DESCRIPTION: H: 1%4 in (410 em), 0: 1 \( in (24 em). Hemispherical then concave cap, straw<Olored or yellow ocher. viscid 'Nhen wet. shiny and silky when dry. Gills Vf!fY broad, pale gray then violet gray, with a wtlite edge. Stipe sIeocier and long, hollow. rigid and brittle, swollen at the base or ending in oil bulb. vkdd, pale yellow with a ring quite !em on the stipe which tums brown when fall 00 it. lNhitish fJesh, thin in the cap; ododess, mild flavor. horse-manure in pastures. late spring HABITAT: on cattle dung, and especially through fall. (ommon and widespread. HYPHOLOMA SUBLATERITIUM DESCRIPTI ON: H: 2%8 in (620 em), 0: 2-4 in (5-10 em). Cap hemispherical then convex. typically brick red at first, paler later, with a margin that is always paler and edgfd with white scales in young specimens. Gills crowrled, wtlitishyellow then violet-gray. Yellow stipe, reddening at the base and with fine scales. Flesh pale yellow. reddening in the stipe; more or less biuer ffavor. HABITAT: in thick tufl5 00 old stumps of dedduous or cooiferous trees. Fall. Fairly common. HYPHOLOMA FASCICULARE SulhlrTuft DESCRIPTION: H :2)1-511 in (6-t3 em), 0: %-2% in (27 em). Cap globulose, soon be<oming convex, then smooth and expanded, lemon yellow wilh a rustcolored (enter; the margin is thin and at first bears the remains of the yeUow (Oflina in the form of small shreds. later, il becomes smooth and turns pale yellowishgref!n. Gills are very narrow and crowded, lemon yellow bul eventually grayish-green or gray i!.hviolet. Stipe long and flexible, yl'lIow at the top. reddish or browllish at the bottom. When spor!'!i are emined, a grayish ring appears morl! or less distinctly on the upper part of the stipe. Flesh thin, bfight yellow, reddish at the base of the stipe; fungal odor, very biller flavor. SPECIAL FEATURES Sulfur Tun is onr of the commoneJt mu, hrooms, appearing wi lh the firsl rains of Ihc fall and Lasting unlil the firsl FrOSlJ. POTENTIAL CONFUSION .. KUEJ-INERO/llYCES /II UTAB/U S Changmg Pholiota Emllu HABITAT: Generally in very crowded tufts on dead stlJmps of deciduous or coniferous trees. as well as on the rDOls; sometimes s r n g ~ or in small tufts of IWO or three spec- imens, Spring through e r ~ winter. Very common and widespread. THE CORTINARIALES m ill HYPHOLOMA CAPNOIOES Conifer Sul fu r Tuft DESCRIPTION: H: n-s'-' in (6-1] em), 0: lH'/. in (3-6 em). hypholoma pos!.ese5 lhe same charac- teristics as Sulfur Tuft. The difference is mamly in lhe gills which are pale gray ailirsl before bKoming glayish-violet.They are never IInted yellow or green, aocl the lIavor is mild F[) I BILITY Not vny lood 10 tal ;and it is 10 noid it 10 Iht possibility of COIIN,ion with Sulfur Tuft. HYPHOLOMA ELONGATUM Long-.temOled Hypholoma DESCRIPTI ON: H 2-4'" in (5 12 on). 0: '6-Ydn (1-2 an). Cap convex or campanula!e. then yOOOth and ltauened,lhe margIn slightly Wlated when weI. pale ocher or yellow, greenish In wei wealller, ochef brown in dry weather Gills pale yellowi!J1 then brown-viOlet wilh while edges. Stipe thin and very slender, up to 6 in (\S em) Ior.g and in (2 mm) Wide, flexible. the color of Ihe cap or paler, with a redd,shbrown or orange base. Covered in white venical fibrils. sometllTle5 arranged in bands giving it a stripy appearance, the lower end covered in while down. Flesh HABITAT: in IUfts on conifer stumps. maillly pine Spring through fall emd in mild wmlefs. Fairly common. especially in the mountains. thin, wh,tlshyellow: faint fungal odor, mild for !.lIghtly billet ""'" HABITAT: grows in dense dumps on moss or sphagnum moss on very damp ground. Summer through lall. Fairly common. PSILOCYBE COPROPHILA Coprophilou, Psilocybe DESCRIPTION: H: 1.'-2110 in (3-4 em), (Ill' tIC,," ro (1lM"II O. ''' 1 in (\ -2.5 em). Cap hemlspllellcal or campanu late, ohen umbonate, ()(hel or leddishfawn, covered in a vis- cous, elastic and detachable film. Gills crowded and broad, pale gray then VIOlet-brown. Stipe often flexible, elastIC and hollow, the same color as the cap. Flesh thin, ocher, with faint odor and Iloury taste. HABITAT: on cattle dung In pastures in summer and fall. common in some parts, and Ihe most widespfead member ,.jill" gil/$ of the Psilocybe genus in North America. POTl NTlAL CONFUSION to AlARA5AIIUS ORI!A DES F,lIlY Rlna Champ.gnon EDIBLE THE CORTINARIALES ..ill.. m PSILOCYBE SEMILANCEATA libcrly Cap! SPEC I AL FFATIJRI S Most haUucinogrnic mushroom. of 5jKciu rtbtcd to libtrty ups "rC' to bt found in the tropics, in p!.cu such., Muico, when they arc' uud in rC'ligious rile, by the native people . DESCRIPTI ON: H: 2-41' in (512 an), 0; h-I' in (1-2 em), Cap conical 10 jXWlted.lJTlbonate. 001 expanding, brownish- yellow or oIM-gray. suaw or cream when dry, covered with a viscid film, and with a Slrjaled margin. Gills gray then dart: purpiistHMown wllh wnlte Stipe very 1009 and slen- def (24'; x 'f.. in 2- 4)1;In (5-12 em x 0.2 em), Ihe color as the cap, sometllnes !JIaOed WIth blue-green at the base. Flesh pale, brownish when W(!I Slight odof of radish, mild flavor. HABITAT: in groups in damp meadows, at on fairly acid soil. late SUIMIeI through late fall Uncommon. KUEHNEROMYCES MUTABILIS Changing Pholiota DESCRIPTION: H: 1'1/.4 1 /. in (4 12 em), 0. , '/ 3'1. in (38 em). Cap convex then Ilanened, often umbonate, !>mOOth surface; reddlShblown when wet. Th! cap bec:omes in dry wt'atl\ef, except in the center which is a dif- ferent (olor. Very fine, transparent margin, through which the gills show. Gills slightly decurrent, yellowish, then lusHolored. Stipe often curved, striated above the ling, else- where covered in pointed or small uptumed scales. betge then turned Ixown with the spores; faint reddlshbrown ring. FIMh aeam, soft in the cap. very fiblous in ttle stipe; odOf plNsanl, mild flaVOI. Good to UI, pluwlf nF"nu. The fibrous .hould be diKardfd.
. ,' W ",',. -, . .
'. -
. "'" .. ' . . .... :
','f ' - . \ !. " HABITAT: In thick. dense tults on old slumps or dead de<iduous trees, especially bee<h, lart! on conifer!.. Spring through fall. Very very common. POTFNTlAL CONFUSION II> GALfRINA AfARGINATA M.uglnllte Galenna DW)lY THE CORTINARIALES PHOLIOTA ALNICOLA Alder Pholiota DESCRIPTION: H: H-6 in (815 eml. 0: LH.4. in (38 em), Cap COI'NeX then eKf)anded, smooth. brilianl arxJ viscid, then red:lish In the center. WIth it few slYeds OIl the margin. Gills pille yeIow beaming rust brown. SIlpe IMIdu- Iallll9. fib<J11ose, pale then reddish- brO'Ml from the base. Flesh yeUaw in the cap, rust al the base of the stipe; strong. pleawrt, am aromatil:: rrWId Of slit;tltly blltff fIao.u. HABITAT: in lults on dead or dying alder, somelilTle$ on birdIes, in damp places. SUm- mer through fall. Uncommon. PHOLIOTA LENTA Clutinous PholioUl DESCRIPTION: H: in (6-12 em), 0: U.-3.4 f1 (4-8 an), Cap hemisphericallhen expanding, very vis- Cid in wei weather. yellow, beige, Of reddiSh, with a few white shreds at the edge of the margin on yoong specimens. Gills whitish- yellow, then odlef through 1161 blown. Stipe ...rolle, reddish toward the base, densely COY- sri CIAL fI ATt IRES 'I'M Sticky PboIiota (1'ItoI;. p_..-), is sma1kr and found in 5Jmts i the cap is .:bIrker. SPH IA1 I EATl IRI 5 StvmJ spWrs of Pbolil)U oicdiutrd to particular gencra of tne, for t'lLlmplr, 1'II00iolll SIllkitolir only grows on "illow, ered in the)O\J'lg spec- Imen With oole scales. 'MIlle flesh, russet aI the base d the Sflle; riel f\ao.u HABITAT: !lOONS in small !JCK.fIS ex only on t:ulfd branches oYId I'oY9S II b!s(s 01 deOOJous trees. beedl ex cooifers; in \h@ fal, ewn late II the Farij ""'''''''''. ' . PHOLIOTA SQUARROSA Shaggy l'holiota DESCRIPTION: H: 4/8 in (12-20 em), 0: 24 III (5-10 em). Cap hernis;lheOcal or campanulall! at first. then CCIO'Il'X and Hauening, with an inrolled margin, totally WYefed in reddish scales 'Mth upturned tiPS against a yellow badgroood, densef in !he Cefller. Gilts aowded, paler then darker yellow. Stipe king, nanO'Nef toward the base, coriaceous and (.ltv like the cap except at the top which is )'fIbN and smooth. fle!.h thid: and libfous, yellow, vneUiog of celery-rool, mild flavor. HABITAT: in large tufts. on the lcoB 01 CONOCYBE LACTEA Milk-white Conexybe DESCRIPTION: H: 24 in (S10 em), 0; I" in (12 em). aging trees. sometimes on the Slumps of deciduous and COfll/efOUS 1Jees. fall through eally winlet'. Failfv common, Cap shaped hke the linger of a glove. bell- shaped or conical, often POInted,wlth a sui ated margin, slightly viscid when wet. whitish or oeam-colored, becommg pale ocher With age. Gills crO'Nded and broad, pale ocher then bright lust-red. Stipe 1loI low, 'I.- 1 :4 in (2 or ] mm) thiCk, thidPnrJ'IQ at the base or WIth a small bulb, while and linely striated, slightly powdery at the top. Flesh very thin, fragile and whi te WIth a faim odor and bitter afterta\t@. HABITAT: lawns and roadsides. Summef through fall. Fairly common and widespread THE CORTINARIALES AGROCYBE AEGERITA, A. CYLINDRACEA Popl ar Pholjou DESCRIPTION: H: 3\/,.6 In (8-1 5 on), 0: 2-4 in (510 an), C." -... """ concao.1!, flanened ., older specimens. mane hazel rn.JI to chemul color, turning cream WIth age. at first at the edge. 1hr cen- ter often femaflS darker; the surfiKe is slightly wrirr ~ I e d or LW'Idulating at the edge. and has a tendency to oad: in the centef of the cap. G,lIs crowded, pale. then dnnalTlOrKoI- ored. with wtuU! edges. Stipe long and flexible. fibrous, pale in color, IlrownrY:I when the spores are deposited; ling implanted t.jI on the stipe. \WII dMIoped, and fleshy. Flesh white, except at the base of the stipe wilerI.' 1\ is brown, pleasant odor and """"""" SPH IAI FF.ATlJRFS Tht Popllr Pboliou hilS long bern rulti'llIltG on I Jinllil WIlt in Italy, on thin slicn or split lop of popll.r. 1t UJ1 now Itt g'own on an lIrtilicw lubsUlItr like the OyIIH Mushroom or tht Cwti ... ,ttd Mushroom. HABITAT: in IUfts on stumps or at the base of lfee UIJf1I:: along the line of the tap-OOts. mainly on popular but !lOme- times on Other species 01 deciduous trees such as the elder and MIl the oak. late spring throoo;,i1 lall, may appeal" seyeral times in one year on the same stump if Ihe weather is mild and damp. It is a w.vmth-Icw- iog speoes. fairly com- mon in soothem regions, much rarer In the north, WKiesplead, Highly pOred in southern France and Italy, II!f1iruL/,/" ,\-__ C"OKi n ~ Very good to cat, with linn, crunchy Brsh tasting of hudnut. AGROCYBE A. DESCRIPTION: H: 2"4',4, in (711 em), 0: in (6-10 em). Cap CO"CiM!, becornirg 11m' (J less flattened. fleshy, oearTrf ....t'II\!! or pale yelloN, VIS- 00. sIiriltly ....mkled or oackilg with age. W15 "" ""'" "" "'" """". "" """"'" IwJby as it ages, wNte fa' lag tine, Il.rrW'g InwlIroo1Ih1! bottom. Rflg ()'! the I4JPI!I' p.Yt oIlh1! bJt not consistent and disap- pe.mg 'MY soon. flesh II'Md;, lim and ....nil!; """" """ _ t;n" fIouy ..... HABITAT: ., troops, YI:r;h, or fused t(XJether II AGROCYBE PEO/AOES GraS! "grocybc DESCRIPTION: H: 1\42 in (3-5 em), O: )I- l )lin (24 cm). Cap hemispherical then yellow ochef, smooth. Gills WIdely spaced afld . - ( . '\ .Jlfl . . . , . M()5 and IIYees at the base d!hl! ., nwd OM and at roadside5. 00 I'O'I-acidic soiI.Etf SI.IT'III1eI' tIv't:Juril wt 1aI. l.OOlmmon rut _ ... bowed, beige then brown With a while edge. Stipe whitish, solid then hollow, WIth OUt a ring Flesh pale, slightly biller or mild and floury flavor. HABITAT: grassland and lawns. Summef and early fall. fairly common in places. srH IAI FEATURF.S The Hemispherical Agrocybc (AgrO()'bf, "IfIiMlritlllliri$} is simibt', but has a viscid up. Somf mycologisu consider thtm to be VilrirMs of I single '!'fein, THE CORTINARIAlES AGROCYBE PRAECOX Early PhoJi ota DESCRIPTION: H: H4%in (812 em). 0: y..21' in (2-7 an). Cap hemlspherKaiItlen smooth, rus sel to brown in weather, pale broYm. beige or dan: yellow dtJ'ing dry spell$. Gills whitISh then brOM'l. Stipe long. thickening and sometimes bulbous at the base. whitish, Wllh a ring very high up. whict1 disappears quite soon, whitish but soon turning brown I:rt betng CfN ered WIth $pOfes. flfsh whitISh. brownish ochef brown at !he base of the S\4lf. odor and flavor of b. PANAEOLUS FOEN/SEC" Harvest Paneoius DESCRIPTI ON: H: 2h-3A in (48 em). 0: %.\',4, in (23 an). Cap hemispherical, soon flanening, red- dish-blown, paling \0 pinkishbeige as it dries. often with a darker margin. Gills widely spaced, swollen, pale brown then purplishbrown, with a white edge. Stipe hollow, smooth, shiny and silky. pruinose at the tOp. whitish, except 0111 the base which is reddish-brown-with whilt! fibrils.
t"
woods. or in parks. Lale spring thlOugh early summer. Com mon and widespread. flesh thin and brown; fruity odor, pleas- ant, and mild flavor, HABITAT: in the grass. on lawns. on fairly rid! soil. SUm- mer through early fall. Common and widespread, PANAEOWS SPHINCTRINUS Sheathed Paneolus DESCRIPTION: H: 46 in (1015 un), 0: \1,1 \!. in (24 em). Cap ovoid then hemispherical 01 ogival. dark gray-brown, becoming pale gray when drying, smooth, with a dentale mar- gin al lus\ hung with !>mall white shr!ds. Gills gray then shaded with darker and paler patches. finally completely black, except on the edge wllkh is white. Stipe long and slender, up to 5 in (15 em (long and only 'Ii in (2 mm) wide, and Ihe same color as Ihe cap, pruinose along the upper half, especially at the lOp. Flesh thin, pale 9ray; odof famt, mild lIavor. HABITAT: on or near callie dung, wt!1I fertilized meadows, and where animals have been. Early summer through fall. fauly common and widespread THE CORTINARIALES 282 283 PANAEOLUS SEMIOVATUS Coprophilolls r ancolus DESCRIPTION:H: H in (515 em). 0: 'A-2 in (2-5 em. Cap campanulate or ogival, not expanding, whitish through grayishocher, with a darker center, surface smooth but wrinkled, shiny and silky in dry weather, viscid when wet. Gills soon be<:om1n9 dark gray, with white edges. 51ipe thin, perpendicular and slightly bulbous. rigid and brittle, short or very looQ. smooth, with a linle white ring in the middle or upper third which blackens with age. Flesh white, thick in Ihl' center of the cap, thin elsewhere; faint odor, mild flavor. HABITAT: on cow-pats or horse-dung in pastures, from tate spring through fall. Quill' (ommon and widespread. RUSSULA NIGRICANS Blackening Russula DESCRIPTION: H: l/r 4 in (4 10 em). (I in (1 20 an). gray with age. Stipe tough, shart and thick, about 2 in (5 em) in diameter, wnlte then darkening like me rest 01 the mush Cap convex and vt'ry walled at firs\.. soon bKomlng depressed in the center, and with a margin tMI is inrolled for a long time, ........ _ _ room_ firm, thick, wnlte but or from the out- Sf\.. soon be<omlng dark gray or marbled with gray brOY/R Gills WIdely spaced aM thick. with numerous fragile gills of varying lengths. whi te but redden- Ing then blackening to the touch and turning reddening before turning bIad: when CUt, flaVO!' mild, acrrd In the
odorless. or lalntly frullYodor. HABITAT: grows under either dedduoos or cOf1llerous trees. on low and high ground. Summer through lall. Very common. THE RUSSULALES '86 '87 RUSSULA DENS/fOLIA Crowded-gill Russula DESCRIPTI ON: H: 2-4 in (5-10 em), 0: 1:,{-]% in (l9 em). Cap convex, becoming quite deeply depressed with a very inrolled margin, often lobed with age, velvety. be<oming tinged with ocher from the center. Gills Vf!ry crowded, thin and narrow, of unequal lengths. pale cream then dark cream. Stipe shorl. 2 in (5 em) maximum, full, pale then tuming brown 01 red. Flesh tough and while, faintly and slowly reddening when cut. then turning gray, navol mild or acrid. HABITAT: under deciduous or coniferous DESCRIPnON: H: 11'-4 n (4 10 em), 0: Hi in (S-IS 011). cap that 01 a first ((lI"M'.l; then long rE!l'nailing iYoIIed. often oMth earth. creamy white trees, 00 acidic !.Oil.Summer through fall. Common. RUSSULA DELICA Milk-whitt Russula ae.YIl bearril;I her a reckish. Gis 'I'f !hid .., ""'" """ ""'""" "'" "'" ,.. Stipe 5hcrt Flesh v.tite.lI'dIirq- i"g.1Ia\o' mid or acrkl, <Xb fRity, beccm- i"g il dder spe<Inens. HABITAT: I.I'def decrl.oos or a:rVIeroos trees in d Earlj t!vco:jl fat Very Common, ivrragr edibility, fbvor rather unpluSMl l RUSSULA OCHROLEUCA Common Yellow Russula DESCRIPTION: H: 2"'4 in (6-10 on), 0: lJ'-4in(410cm). low under Ihe WIlde, very fragile There is no odor and tile flavor is faintly acrid, but inconsistent. HABITAT: In large groups under de<iduous or cOI'Iiferous trees, ComlTlOllef in pine woods on sandy Of .Kidic soil. Cap COIlVeII alfirst, then flattening and bKoming undulated and slightly depfessed; the cutICle is <100 shiny, easily detachable from half or two-thirds of the cap, firslluminous lemon Ihen becoming tinted wlIh ocher or olive late SlA'M1eI through With age. The oowded gills all! Sinuated or swollen and adhere 10 the stipe. They are while at first but are eventually tinted pale yellow. The stipe Is more or less cylindrical, often Ihldened al the base, solid then spongy. rough Of striated. II is while in young specimens. graying progresSiYtIy. The flesh is .....tIlle, ye- fall. Com- moo. -/-___ Ufpt dllt DESCRIPTION: H: 2-4/, in (5-12 an), 13: 2-4,4 in (5-12 an). THE RUSSUlAlES Cap then WIth a shallow depresslOll in the center, bright yellow all over and shiny, slightly viscid in damp weather. Gills 'Nhite then dirty ocher, graying to the touch. Stipe pure wtme sUiated length- wiS!!, graying with age. Flesh white tenchng to gray a few minutes alief culling. HABITAT: deoduous trees in marshy ground (mainly birch and alder), SOITIftlrnes among sphagnum moss. Mainly in IIOI1hern regions. Fairly common. RUSSULA FELLEA Gcranium-.ccntecl Russula DESCRIPTION: H: 2K-3Y. in (4-8 an), o 2-4 In (5-10 em). Cap convex but soon HanerW1g. no! vy depressed. lawn orange or ocher il the cent@!" and often pale ocher at the edge. Gills the same color as the cap but paler. Stipe the same color as the gills, often swollen toward the cent@!" or at the base. Flesh white and firm, odor fruity smelling 01 stewed apple, flavor acrid. HABITAT: under beech, uncIef COI'IllefS (spruce), in the plains and mountains fall. Common. 2!!. '" RUSSULA FOETENS Stinking Russula DESCRIPTION: H: in (815 em), 0: 3'J..7'/.in (818 an). Cap globulose in young then f1anening and becoming depressed, viscid, WIth a deeply and extensively striated ochef 10 reddish margin, more or less spotted wnh darker red, thin, undulating margin, de1!ply fluted. Gills spaced and Ihkk, whitish thefl rMdish, exuding drops of liquid in young !opKlmens. StJpe robust, lough, narrowing al the lop. some1imes bulbous, while then dot- ted WIth red, full at first, then containing uregular cavities. firm and reddis/1, wongly rill'l(id odor, flaYOl' very acrid. RUSSULA FAGETICOLA Seeeh Russula DESCRIPTION: H: 2:.'4 In (6-10 an), o 1!1i4rn(4 10cm). Cap tonCave al first. wllh an inrolled margin, then be<oming depressed in Ihe center; cuticle detachable oYef a tlllfd of thl! radiUS 01 the cap al most, scarlet discol- OIlng In patches. Pale, crO'Mled gills. whitish Wllh a bluish'green tinge in young Stipe firm and may be thkkened at the base, wtlite HABITAT: deciduous and coniferous woods. Summer through fall.Common. then graying at tile base. FIe9l tough, thid:. and wtHie, pwlkish under tile cuticle, !>lightly frlif!y or honey odor, flavor very iKrid. HABITAT: Mainly in bI!Kh forests, SOOII!lImes undi!f oak, on lather acidiC SOil. In plams and moontains. fall. Common. THE RUSSULALES RUSSULA KROMBHOLZII, R. ATROPURPUREA Black-and-purple Russula DESCRIPTI ON: H: 1%-2% in (4-7 em), G: 2/-4 in (6-10 em), Cap then flallened and slightly RUSSULA FRAGILIS Fragile Russula DESCRI PTI ON: H: I'A-2% in (3-7 em), 0: %-2 in (25 em), Cap convex then flattened 01 depressed, depressed in the centet; fIestr,o and shif'T1. moo in wet weather. dark PIJ1)Ie aIroosl bIad in the center; discolomg with age. marg;" not striated, urdulatirv;J. Gills v.+aite ex aeam, crowded. Stipe shrtt and cylinOOcaI ....rute often 1T\iICUIa1ed wilt1 ocher. with age. Flesh firm. I'Jtitish. sligltly acrid. Cl!b faint aoo fruity. HABITAT: ....::\ef detiiJous trees (man 001:) or pine trees. on g;assy in 1'dk1M. Stmner and fall. Common. viscid when wet, Vf!ry variable in color, dirty pink, purple, or violet with a darker center, but the colors soon fade and the shade of the cap often tends toward greenish as il getS older. Gills white 01 Cfeam, with toothed edges. Stipe whi le, fragile. sometimes swollen at the base. flesh white. fairly firm, buttle in the stipe, very acrid. fla'lOJ, !ruity odor. HABITAT: in groups in woods among birch, oak, etc., and more rarely under COnifers. Late summer through fall. Very commoo. RUSSULA OLiVACEA Olive Russula DESCRIPTION: H: 2:6-6 in (1-15 (In), 0: 3',(-7'1. in (818 an.) One of the largest 1US5(J1as. Cap hemispherical then f1auened 'Nith a margin thaI remains irtolled II)' a Ioog time, sometimes with a shaI- k7.Y depres.slon at the erv:I.lhe surface Is rough, malte, ....,Ih ttny (oocentoc 'NIi1ll:1es; the rob" is YefI/ variable, rargio;J frOOl olive geell shaded with purple, rpf. and broY.on. Cuticle sepalabie 1M'! one third of the radius of the cap. Gills aCM'ded, bunel-oolored then orange. Stipe very thid 2-4'hx:41%- (S-12x2-4), white, o ~ e n tinged with pink. Sometimes the pU1k is con- filled to ude at the lop of the stipe. Flesh very flf1l1 and v.tiile, IIaYor mik!. HABITAT: under deciduous trees (beech, oak, etc.) or I.I1der coniferlJl.fi trees in plains and moontains up to 6SOOO fI (2000 m) (spu;:e, f ~ . Summer through fall. (ommon, except in northern Europe. TOXICITY This Russula has been l'fsponsible for minor poisonings, especially in Itlly. Once considered edible, it is now Jxolicved to be wise to refrain from eating it. THE RUSSULALES 291 '" RUSSULA VINOSA Vinous Russula DESCRIPTION: H: 2'.-'4\'1 in (6-12 em). 0: 21(4 in (6- 10 em). Cap soon eKj)anded and depressed in the center, fleshy, purplishred or darl: burgundy, often darker in the center. Cuticle separable OVl'r two lhirds of the radius of the tap. Gills (learn or pale ocher, blacken- ing on the margin. Stipe white, sometimes splashed with yellow toward the base, blackening with age. Flesh white. reddening then blackening In the air, With a mild flavor. RUSSULA INTEGRA Entire Russula DESCRIPTION: H: 2-4'..s in (512 em), 0: 2-4\'1 in (512 em). Cap hemispherical 011 first, almost globu- lose, then expanded or evell depressed a1 the end, shiny. viscous in we! weather, of variable color but generally brownish sometimes mixed with viole!, purple, yel - low, or green. Gills thicK and well spaced. friable. white then bright yellow. Stipe up !O I/. in (3 em) thick. white then splashed EDIBILITY Fairly good to rat. Not to be wilh Ihf Bay R ... ssula (Rllss,'!" b"dia) which becomes extremely after bdng chcww for .. few momfnts. HABITAT: coniferous trees, espe- cially spruce, on damp or marshy ground, in the mountains. Summer through fall. Not very common. wi th yellow or red. Flesh while and very firm, mild flavor. HABITAT: in large groups in coniferous I()(ests in the mountains. Summer through early fall. Very common. RUSSULA PALUDOSA Marsh Russula DESCRI PTI ON: H: H in (5 15 em), 0: 2-6 in (5-15 (m). Cap convex then flat tened, undulating or deformed, depressed. firm and shiny, viscid in wet bIoo:I red to pink&Hed, or orange-red. Cuticle sepa!"abie 0YeI' naif or three-qoarters of the radius 01 the cap. Gills cream thef1 ocher, tinted with red on the mar- gin. Stipe thickening toward the base or centef, white or pink-tinted then lTMXe or less grayish. HABITAT: on high. marshy ground, under espe<ial!y SumnlE!J and lall. Fairly common in its habitat. RUSSULA XERAMPELINA. R. ERYTHROPODA Dead-leaf Russula DESCRIPTION: H: 2)\ 4Y< in (6-12 em), 0: in (6- 12 em). Cap convex then !lanened and slightly depressed i'l the center, margo IIYOIIed for a bN;J time, very dark reddlSh-!)JrpIe. <XheI or with a dalt.ened center v.tIich can become <iscoIored, rutide separable OYer a qJarter at most of the Jadius of the cap. Gills turn- ing ochef. 1" in (3 an) thid:. MIl' tinted good to eat, but with a rather odor. with pinkish red, staining to the touch.
brrINning ""'" rubbed; 000r of cooIaI shelffish. espeQally i1 old HABITAT: (onilers (pinel, on acidic or siliceous soil. Late su:nmer through fall. Very common. THE RUSSULALES
'" RUSSULA CYANOXANTHA Charcoal Burner DESCRIPTION: H: 21'-4% in (612 em.) 0: 2-6 in (515 em), Cap then flattened and slightly depressed in the center; tough, ohen violet in young !.pe(imens. later becoming shaded wilh variety of (0101"5- pink, purple, gray, and green-and cO'Iered ill radiating fibrils, Stipe whit!!, sometimes tinted pink. narrower at the base, Gills thick and white, flexible and nO! briule, crushing to pulp unde; the pressure of a finger, of a greasy consistency to the touch. Flesh whitish, graying wtlen exposed to the air, pink under the cutkle; mild hazelnut or slightly auid HallQr. Gills M"bilr Imd grtns)' HABITAT: under de<iduoos tfees (beech, oak, birch), sometimes under conifers. Summer through fall. Very common. EDIBILITY Good to eat \\;Ih I fb\'or lib hazelnut The Charcoal Burner is one of the rasti. I ru$SuLu. Allhough it cannot be con fuscd casily with a poisonolls sptdu, it is sometimes hud to differentiate it from other ru$5I1IaS btcallSt of the nllm bcr of colors that the cap can adopt. The btSI lesl is 10 crush tht giUs with a fingtt, 10 He if they feel grusy to Ihe louch. RUSSULA VESCA Edibl e Russula DESCRIPTION: H: in (7-1) an), 0: 24 in (5-10 em). Cap color very vari- able, I:A.rt often viIoos pA: or reddish-brown and sPOl1ed with red marks. The cuti- cle ohen seems to be too short and does not entirely (over the margin of the cap. Gills very forked near the stipe, white spotted with small patches ci rust IYith age. v.tme and very firm, sometimes tinted with pink or RUSSULA VIRESCENS Grl! cn Cracking Russula DESCRIPTION: H: in (512 em), 0: in (6-15 em). Cap gklbuklse or """""",,,'. "" f1anl'Oed and very firm, often lumpy, the margin always craded, fk>ury, the cuticle splits into scales I'.tlich can take on a variety of colors. such as brown, ocher, aro:j rust. Gills rust. Flesh white and firm. Odor faint. not typical and mild hazelnut Havor. HABITAT: de<iduous or conifer- ous woods. on acidic, welldralned soil, in the plains and mountains. late spring through fall. Very common. crowded, creamy wtlite. Stipe thO: aro..t 2 in (5 em) in clametl'l) v.tIite. SOO'Ieomes sliljltly stained with red at the base. Flesh thid 3"Id white, 3"Id with a mild hazelnut cxb faint. \qlIeasant in the end. HABITAT: deOOJous woocIs (ook, beech, chest nUl, birch). Fairly common in the waHlIE!I regions. Iale SUfMlE!l throocj1 fall. Very good to cat, raw, but the AtSh i5 oftrn wormtatrn. THE RUSSULALES RUSSULA LEPIDA Pretty Russul a DESCRIPTION: H: 214-4 in (4-10 em). 0: ~ H ~ in (412 em), Cap identical to thai 01 other russulas, first convex then expanded and sometimes slightly depressed; the cuticle cannol be separated from the ftesh and it is velvety. malle and bright red, often discolored into pink or even yellow in places. Gills crowded, white then cream, !oOmetimes with a pink edge. Slipe often thicker at the base where it can reach a diameter of 1'" in (3 em). The flesh of the cap. like Ihal of the slipe. is exuemely lough and compaC1; it is white. graying Slightly when broken, but pink under the cuticle. The odor and flavor are quill.' dearly minty. 5(!veral varielles of this spies are recognized. HABITAT: mainly under beeches. as well s other deciduous trees, on any type of soil. Summer through fall. Common. RUSSULA AURORA, R. ROSEA Pink Russula DESCRIPTI ON: H: 1}l.4!' in (4 12 em), 0: 1'.'4 in (4 10 em), Cap then Battened and slighlly depressed in the center, pink or red. fairly pale. ohen ocher in the center. Gills white aod deeply forked, crowded or spaced. Stipe white and firm, pruir.ose at the top, RUSSULA TURCI Turco's Russula DESCRIPTI ON: H: 1'.'4'1. in (48 em), 0: 1)\4 in (410 em). Cap convex, soon expanding with a cen tral depression; matte in dry weather to very depending on th humidity. remain ing slightly in the central depressioo which is amethyst in color. often Wl ttl a darker circle around the center. Gills swoHen at the base and ohell narrowing just under the gills. Flestl film and white. flavor mild alld odorless. HABITAT: under decidu ous trees (beech, oak, Ilornbeam, etc.) or conifers, in weH drained soil. Slimmer through early fall. Fairly common. THE RUSSULALES cream then fairly rapidly ocher. Stipe pure white. sometimes In places. Not "fry good to cat and thr bur of thr stipe should be Flesh white. Iodine odor. especially notice- able at the base of the sUpe. mild. HABITAT: under pines or other conifers, in lowlands or highlands. Summer Ihrough fall . Fairly common. RUSSULA SANGUINARIA, R. SANGUINEA Sanguine Russul a DESCRIPTION: H :1%4 in (4- 10 cm), e: 11,1; -4 in (4-10 cm). Cap fleshy, convex al first and expandmg without becoming depressed. or only Vf.ry slightly. The thin margin remains inrolled for a long time, the carmine cutiCle pales or discolors into cream or pink scales. It looks finely granulose and dry but is slightly viscid when II rainio The gills are crowded. slightly decur- rent. cream to pale ocher, The stipe is cylindrical or slightly spindle- shaped. full and firm. whi te or tinted with the same color as the cap, or faintly yellow. but graying upon malllrity. The Oesh is thick. firm and whi te. red urxler the cuticle, and with a bitter, acrid flavor .,. ........ HABITAT: under pines in the mountains. up to the tree line. and also in the low- lands. Summer 5ri/lt iIkD 5Minrd
through fall. Com- m"" DESCRIPTION: H: 2-4'hin (5- 12 em). 13: 1%4 In (4 10 em). Cap convex then flauened and slightly depressed, sometimes umbonate. violet, dark purple, or (Iimson lake. sometimes yellowish ocher or green. Gills cream at first then rapidly turning lemoo yellow and finally golden yellow. Stipe pruioose or powdery, usually purple, lilac, or violet, palef than the cap, ocher althe base, somewnes entirely white. Odc:w sllQhtly SI'I (11\1 HI\TURES MycoloJisb likntify this 'peatS without difficulry, due to the brillwlI pinkish.red coloration it adopb in the prut'ncc of ammonia vapor. frUitY, tasle very iKrid. Flesh compact and v!IY firm, white or lemon, pinkish under the cullde. HABITAT: in large colonies exclusively under pine trees, in lowland, on sandy soil. Fall . Very common. THE RUSSULALES lOO '" RUSSULA QUELETII auele!'! Russula DESCRIPTION: H: 211O4 in (610 un), 0: ' '''Hin(Hcm). Cap (onvt'l then depressed, slightly viscid, shiny, pinkish purple Of crifTOOll lake, WIth iI dalkel' ernie!' 01' sometimes greenish like the edge, paling 10 dirty odlef sale with age; cutICle separable rNef ill least half the radius. Gills cream, faintly greenim. Stipe 2 x 1-2 em). Fauly soft and regular, oimson lake and very pruinose, white at the very bottom. Flesh while and purplish-pink on the surface, thick and Ixll- tie. strong odor of apple or stewl!d apple, acrid !laVOl. HABITAT: spruce, l'SpeCially on limestone soil. lale summer through early fall. Very common ill the mountains. LACTARIUS PIPERATUS Peppery Milk-cap DESCRIPTION: H: 3'47J. in (8-18 em), 0: 2-6 In (5-15 em). Cap lightly in the center with a tightly ir1folled margin, becoming funnel shaped, matte creamy wtlite, becoming stained WIth r!d. <>iUs very thin,crowded and narrow, II)JBILITY Not ,ood to Ut, btUust ir is mucb 100 bltr\ IU' and boiltd in nSltm Europt and RlI$sUo. Dmd and powdmd it ill/Std u a substitllir for ,.,.,.... LACTARIUS VELLEREUS Fleecy Milk-cap DESCRIPTION: H. 48 in (10-20 em), 0; 410 In (1025 em). Similar 10 the P!ppery Milk-cap. abow, but often larger. wlIh a YelYety surface to the cap and less crowded gills. HABITAT: under de<idllOus trees, mainly at the edges, in highland and low- lands" Fall . very common. wMe or cream. Slipe rathef short. nanO'Ning at the base, FJesh thick and wtlite, becoming slightly gteenish yellow when bro- ken. AlxJndant milk whiCh is also .... tllte, tool- ng pale green in one or two very PI!JlIlI!IY fLMlr. HABITAT: In groups or ,ides in damp detib:Ius or mixed woOOs. St.mner and fan. e"""", . THE RUSSUlAlES 10' JOl LACTARIUS TORM/NOSUS Woolly Mil k.cap DESCRIPTION: H: 24 in (5-10 em), 0: 2-4 in (S- IO em). Cap hghtly depressed In the center flom it young age, but very imolled OIl the edge. pinkish-orange (l( pale orange, often with a few darkel', concentric circles. and covered in a 'NOOtly fleece in young Gills aeamy pink. Stipe till! same color as the gills, sometimes slightly PItied. Flesh firm and while, milk whIle WIth a very acrid flavor. LACTARIUS PYROGALUS Burning Milk.cap DESCRIPTION: H:2'.'4% in (612 em). 0:2-4 in (5-10 em). Cap convex Of flattened. sooo becoming depressed and funnek,haped with a thrn, wavy margin, almos\lobed. Grayi$h, shaded WIth betge, ocher, Of green, slightly viscid, somelJIIll'S with a few concentric Circles. Gills slightly dec:unent, wIdely spaced, first (Jearn then rapidly turning lurninoos ocher. Stipe cylindrical or tapering al lhe base, while \0 gray- ish, smooth or striated. Flesh whr te, containing an abundant whi te mill: which turns yeliow-olNe upon drying. More or less frUity odor, but veI'f pefSistent, acrid na- vor, espedally in the mill:. HABI TAT: deciduous woodl, especially under birch. SumrTlff Ihroogh fall. Quite common. HABITAT: groups of varying sizes In hazelnut groves, more rarely under other deciduous trees. late summer through fall. Common. LACTARIUS PALLIDUS Pale Milk-cap DESCRIPTION: H: 2-4 in (5-10 em), 0: 26 in (515 em). LACTARIUS SUBDULCIS Beech Milk-cap DESCRIPTION: H: llOt( in (3-7 em). 0: Cap convex then flattening raptdly in the center, not very depressed but slightly umbonate, malte brown. Gills cleam Ihell reddish ocher. Stipe of len curved at the the same color as the cap but paler al the lop. Flesh pale reddish, Wlt/l very abon- dam whue milk, the IlaYOf being mild al first. then iKlld. HABITAT: espe<ially undef bee<h, on clay soil. Summer through fall. QUile common. Cap flattened ....;th irrolle<! margin, becoming depressed falltj lale, Vi!.od, piIlkIsh cream, beige, or almost Lnform or WIth darkeI patches. Gils deo.nent. aCl'MEd and of lflI!QUaI lengths. white then beige Cf yellow- ish. Slape shott. while. stained with led, white, then rl'ddisll in the s!lpe. with willie. lIldIlging milk; fI.wor mild or !Jigltly acrid. HABITAT: mainly under beh. late SUTWTIeI' tlvrujl Iali. Qulle common. THE RUSSULALES LACTARIUS PLUMBEUS, L. NECATOR, L. TURPIS Ugly Milk.cap DESCRIPTION: H: 2-4 in (5 10 em), '" 28 ill (520 em). Cap convex. then wlIh a wide, shallow depression, vi!.Cid in the center, dark olive-lMawn Of gray-brown, margm inrolled for a long lime and hairy in yoong specimens. Gills crowded, cream, browning al the edge and where damaged. Stipe sl'lort and thick about 1 in (3 em), paler than the cap, with many small ClfCII- I,ll pilS. FIHh whiti!>h to brown, milk while and abundan1. be<omll'lg gray- green as it dnes. Milk and f ~ laste very aend. LACTARIUS VIETUS Cray Milk.cap HABITAT: under birch and In mixed woods contain- ing birch on acidi<: SOil, in lowlands and highlands.. late sumlT\ef through fall. Common. DESCRIPTION: H: 24 in (510 em), 0: 2-H in (5-8 em), Cap Battened WIth an InroUed margin, thin, lillef be<oming depressed in the center and With an undulating gray b e i ~ or gray Violet margin. Gills cream theo orange, graying with age. Sllpe sometimes thicker at the base, whitish Of grayish. Flesh whitish to pale led, milk white gradually turning gray- green as it dries, acrid fla'o'Of. HABITAT: damp birch woods or pine woods, even on peaty soil. late summer through fall. QUite (ommon. LACTARlUs BLENNIUs Slimy Milk.cap DESCRIPTION: H: in (412 em), 0: n-I! in (4-10 em). Cap (O!M!X or ilal1ened thefl depressed, very viscid when young, bfown or gray- green,WlIII small slightly <larkef patches on the edge. Gills white then staining in a few minutes \0 gray-green to the touch. Stipe 'A to Jr:in (1 10 2 em) Ihkk, viscid, sllghlly paler th'lIl lhe cap. Flesh whitish,willl abundant, while, gradually turning oIivaceous as it dries. and wllh an acrid lIaVOf. LACTARIUs TRIVIA LIS Common Milk-cap DESCRIPTION: H: 2/.7'/.ln (6 18 em), 0: 2.4-8 in (620 em). '" '"" "'" """. - ........ UIf""" U. ,1t ."tid L---P' HABITAT: only under beech. Summer through fall. Commoo. dish brown or grao,;sh-odlef, sometimes discol- ored. Gills s1igh&j oeam then ocher. St.pe sligltly viscid, the same color as the cap. Flesh rompact. pako. tttltaining an alu'ldant amotXIt 0( mi whim when II mes 00 the gil!.. tI.rns gayish-green, mild then aaid HABITAT: lRlef conifers and birches, mainly in the ITIOlKItains in damp places. Fairly common. FDiBILlTY Orspilt iu slightly xrid afttlt.1S1r, thr Common Millt.ap is sought afttr in tain (Ounlri" in rastern Europt. THE RUSSULALES 2l'!.. ,OJ LACTARIUS SANGUlFLUUS Bleeding Milk.eap DESCRIPTION: H: 24 in (510 tIT1), 0: 24'h in (5- 12 em). Cap not so br ight as that of the Saffron Milk-<ap and not marked with concentric circles. Gills ocher or red dish, but dark, staining bmwnishviolet when rubbed. Stipe pruinose, pinkish orange, Pitted with darker red depres- sions. which have a tendency to turn green like the fest 01 the mushroom. Flesh releases a dark red milk, which gradually turns greenish. HABITAT: under various of pine (Scots pine, Austrian, Aleppo pine). Fall. (ommon in southern regions. especially on lime- stone soil, but il can also be found in certain areas of northern Europe. dark /mJIo." rubbrd LACTARIUS DELICIDSUS Saffron Milk-cap DESCRIPTI ON: H: 1/,.4 in (4-10 em). 0: 2_4'1. in (5-12 (m), Cap or flattened, v.i!h Vf!fY inrolled margin, !)e(omir);j deprl'Ssed in the center; then the margin turns upward and the mush- room becomes funnel !.haped. Bright orange, sometimes splashed green as ages. with lTlOfe or less marked (Of'l(e!ltOC dldes. Gills crowded and de<urrenl orange, splashed with tx"ight green where damaged. Stipe fairly thick and hollow, also <range, do!- led with small darl:er pits. Flesh thick and firm in young specimens, pale yellow to orange al the edge, gradu- ally becOO1iog car- rot coIored when exposed to the aif and exuding a bright orange milk when broken. Odor fruity and f\avof slightly acrid. HABITAT: in large exdusively in cooiferous 'NOOds (pine) 00 fNef'/ type of soil, with a preference for acidic soils. Fall . EIlIBILITY Good 10 ur, especially when young , when the edge of the (ap is very much curved downward, bur not as tasty as the Bleeding Milk.cap. CONFUSION LACTARIUS DETERRlMUS SpnKe Milk-up EI)18U LACTARIUS SAl.J110NICOLOR Salmon Mllk.cap EOl81.[ THE RUSSULALES .. '" LACTARIUS DETERRIMUS Spruce Milk.cap DESCRIPTION: H: 2-4 in (5-10 on), o 1K-4'hin(412cm). II looks like the true deli Cious milk-<ap, the SaHron Milk-cap, HOW-ev(!r, it turns qUICkly and more uni- formly. The IS not pitted and has a while mark under the gills. The flesh turns darker red when exposed to the and the flaYor is CKrid. LACTARIUS RUFUS Red Milk.cap DESCRIPTION: H: 11']:.1 in (48 em). 0: 1',,4 in (3-10 em.) Cap convex, soon expanding and becooltng sf9JtIy depl'essed, 'NIth a small 00Ib0 II the tenter of the dep'essiOn: untfron reddish- chestnut or brick-red color. In yoong speci- mens. the margin is CO'Iefed with a down- HllBILITY This mushroom, whKh tm" horribly acrid, is catfn in cerUin countriu after bdng spcriaUy prepared 10 remove the wont of the flIlit. COOling. Gills 0""",,,. d,,,,,,,,, HABITAT: ooly in spruce forests. mainly in the moun- tains. fal l. Common. Edible, but 'o\ith a pery taste. It is vcsted and catrn al a "delicious milk'Gp,' OMTl then red- denng. Stipe s/iI;t1lly paler than the cap and white al the base. Flesh wlVte: ai:uldanl \'AllIe milk With a YefY acrid IIa-.o , burning the hps .mel' a few HABITAT: coniferous woods pinel 00 acidic or siliceous soil. Sonvnef through fall. Very common. LACTARIUS GLYCIOSMUS Coconut Milk-cap DESCRIPTION: H: lA-n. in (3-7 em), 0: ',(2 in (25 em), Cap convex, then slightly dep!"essed, sometimes With a small central umbo, vel vety surface, beige to grayislHed, some times timed reddlsh-pinl: or pinkish- violet Gills de<ulfent and crowded. cream \0 orange, daruilIng, pale russet White milk nol very abundant. mild or not very peppery !\a. VO! and characteristic coconut odor. HABITAT: in groups undef birch or alder, on very damp, acidic soil. Summef through lale fall. Quile common. LACTARIUS HELVUS Blond Milk.cap DESCRIPTION: H: J'.4,4'h In (812 em). 0: 26 in (515 em), Cap fIe!.hy, convex or flattened With an inrolled margin, then depressed into a cup- SMpe, SOJn(!times with a small umbo, with a finely granulose .md downy SUficlCl', brOWfl- ish-yellow or dark red, Gills decurrent, cream in young but darkening to odIef wi th age. Stipe more 01 less uniform or thickening at the base, reddish orange, pru- lnose and often velvety at the Iowef end. Flesh pale, d,lfkt! al the aoo redden- THE RUSSULALES IrIg -MIen exposed to the .-. Not very aIlu:1- dant rr.1k, transparent, wnh a rriId IIaYor and ocIor of roast chicOfy or cele!y. HABITAT: in birch woods or sproo!, ....tIere there are bilbenies and blueberries, bradell, and heathef. It can also be found among LACTARIUS QUIETUS Oak Milk-up DESCRIPTI ON: H: l J'-4 in (410 em), o in(4- IO em). Cap convex at first wah wolled, even mar- gin, then and undulating, the surface looking as if It werl' eowred in hoar-frost, reddish sprinkled With darker patches Of with one Of tWO darker circles Gills evenly spa<ed and slightly de<Ulrent, paler and stained rustbrown where dam- aged. The stipe is the same color as the cap, !.phagrun moss on acidic soil. Late SU'l'IffieI' ttwouril M1y Ial. COIMIOI'l ill the mountains. but darker at the base. The whilish flesh turns r!d whtn exposed to the all and con- tains a cream-colored milk which hardly (i'laJ'l9l'S color. II i1 not very aoondant. with a mild. 001 slightty bitter flavor and II smells of wood-lice. HABITAT: only under oak !rees and usually on acid soil. Late sumrTll'f through fall. Very common. LACTAR/uS CHRYSORRHEUS Yellow Milk.up DESCRIPTION: H: 2-4 in (5-10 an). 0: 1 in (4-8 em). Cap flattened or COI1Yel, slightly deprMSed In the center, ptnkish-orange or pale orange, marked....,th patches or concentrIC cirdes of a darker color. Gills Cfowded, earn then orange. Stipe UneYefl and Flesh turning bright yellow when broken, abun- dant milk turning yellow in lhan a minute after breakifl9. Very acrid. flavor. LACTARIUS VOLEMUS Abundant Milk-cu" DESCRIPTION: H2-6 in (5 15 em), 13:2-6 in (5-15 em), HABITAT: -= ..... (ook, beech, chest- nut) and IW.ed ..... """'" thou(;l fa" . Common. Cap coovex then depres.sed in the cent mar- grl rernainrY:I Irvcaed, WIth a rifle 01 smoo!h SlIface. U"llfoon cok:It apicol, or,yge. Of liI'Ml <range. somefuIes cIart2r in the (ernet'. GIs cream then splashed with broMl- ishher. Stipe the same coItt as the cap. yebYish at the tql. Flesh fim and v.hte, trown.ng exposed to ail. nIIk ab..ndant and wtvte. wrth a miklllawr D.rt odoc HABITAT: deddoous woods (beech) (J IJIdef wnifers. Soowner and early fal. Quill! rommon. THE RUSSULALES .1!!.. m LACTARIUS FULVISSIMUS FaWl'l Mi lk-up DESCRIPTION: H: in (7-10 em,) 0: in (69 em) Cap becoming deeply depressed. often WIth a tiny central umbo, smooth Of slightly gran- uiose, reddish to OIange!awn. Fairly bright, gradually becoming palf!f al the margin, which ;s pale orange. Gills fairly oowded, bKoming more separated as the cap becomes oum to pale ytllow the reddISh rellectlOOS, reddening woth age. Stipe the color Of paler than the cap. but reddish-brONn toward the base, coomed In striations, which are more accentuated below the gills. Flesh pale WIth a stroog and unpleasant fUbbefy odor, flavor mild but rather unpleasant. milk white, ul1(lIa09ll'l9. mild or slightly acrid. HABITAT: under deciduous trees or In mixed woods. on slightly calcareous soil. late summef thfOOgh fall. Uncorrvnon 10 fairly common. LACTARIVS TABIOVS Birch Milk-cap DESCRIPTION: H: IA-] 1S in (48 em), o JI,2 in (2-5 em), Cap Wl'inkled, espedally in the (ef'ltef, often umbonate, pale reddish ocher. dafker in the cefltel'. Gills aeam then orange. Stipe very bllttJe. the same colOl as the cap. Milk fairly abundant, white, yellowing in less than a minute II isolated from the fleVI, flavor mild then slightly acrid HABITAT: deciduous Of conifel'OlrS woods. Summer and fall. Common. THE RUSSUlAlES ...ill.... '" LACTARIUS HEPATICUS Hepatic Milk-cap DESCRIPTION: H: 2-4 in (5-10 em), 0: 1 'A- 2'.4 In (3-6 em). Cap corTv'eX or flatlened. then dep-essed, Ir,.e,--coIored or chest- nul with it hint of mane, sometimes I.IT'b:mte ard slightly furrowed 00 the m.:.-9n. Gills cxher with 1**. ish tints. Stipe the same coItY as the cap or redd"ISh-QOMl. Flesh awn to pale red; milk ab.nianl teroing lOyellow, mtW'e iltensely ff is isolated from the mushroom. fIaoJor acrid an:j binef. LACTARIUS FULIGINOSUS Smoky Milkcap DESCRIPTION: H:2-4 in (510 em), 0:1 \4]A in (J.8 em), Cap convex or flattened then slightly HABITAT: In onvery acidic soil. Fall. Common. depressed, IlOt very fleshy, velvety brown, grayocher, brown-ocher, cafe-au-Iair. Gills only slightly decurrent if at all, cream then pinkish ocher, reddening when rubbed. Stipe while. later laking on the same (01 oration as the cap. Flesh while becoming salmon pink in a few minutes when cut, milk abundant and white, reddening very slowly bUI remaining while il isolated hom the mushroom. Flavor mild or acrid. HABITAT: under deciduous trees (oak, beech, etc.) or under spruce. Summer through fall. Fairly common. STROBILOMYCES STROBILACEUS Pine-cone Solele, Old Man of the W o o d ~ DESCRIPTION: H: 4-1'/. in (10-18 em), 0: 2)1-4)1 In (7-12 em). Cap hemispherical then flanffied, covered In large triangular, partially detached, grayish- black or brownish-black scales on a palei' back- ground; shaggy margin. Pores largt', grayish, redden- ing to the tOUCh, then bIaden- 11'19 Wlth age, Stipe gray-brown, woolly Irke the cap, excppt al the lop whlth is $ITIOOth and has a fainl ring. Flesh soft and white, turning dirty red in contact wllh the air, then blackening, no pankular odOI or flavor, HABfTAT: beech forests, sometimes also under cooifefs, usually Singly. late summer IhfOUgh early fall. Uncommon. TOXI( lTV Suspled of bring poi$Onous_ Somt !>fople (onlidtr il edible when young, bul of no grt.1 interest, .nd when oldtr it il tOO fibrous. In North Amerita, some tases of poisoning h.ve been reported, but they may have btcn due to similar l!>fcits found then. It is tht only bolttt in u r ~ with this strlngc shaggy apptlfllnct. Lr.f! Kllks allJ gral,!t.d' 1111101 TYLOPfLUS FELLEUS Bitter BoJele DESCRIPTION: H: 4-7;4 in on), 0: Hin(SolScm). Cap hemiSphefiCal then convex Of flat tened, thick, )"liow- brown, pale brown, or ochraceoos-olive, velwty texture, often aacknJ II '*Y Pcwes lather WIde and angular, whiush tllen pale pink with age, turning brown to the touch. Stipe bulbous, Ihen elongated and swoIlefl althe base, aeam through ocher, deco- rated wllh a network of lafge, prominent red filaments.. fle'sh soft in the cap and fibrous in the Stipe, white, possibly turning slight red when 10 the air. PItas- ant odOI bullJSUalty very billef lIiIVOf. ron NTiAl CONfllSION .. BOLETUS fDULIS Ctp El If .. BOLfTUS AESTIVAUS Summu fnllll f .. BOLETUS BADIUS s,y Bolete THE BOLETALES ..l!.L ". HABITAT; undef deciduous 01 coniferous trees. pine and spruce on acidic. well- drail'led soil. Summer through fall. Fairly common in places. F()IBILITY [nedible, The bitternns, which it in the raw mll5hroom bttomu milch grtaler during cookiDg, ..rodering thi$ incdibk. One Biner Boltlr mlonll a colltttion of Ups of !Ny Boleln, which il is nsily with will nail! a whole dish and rnU;e il inedible. BOLETINUS CA VIPES Holl ow-stemmed Bolclc DESCRIPTION: H: 2-4 in (5-10 em), 0: 10 (512 em), Cap conical and conve)(. then flattened and umbonate, or on the othel' hand, may be depressed in the (!fllef, yellow-cwange to red- M:lfillose or slightly scaly and velvety, WIth a paler margin fl'tainil"lg shreds of the origInal veil. Tubes curved. decurrent to 1M ring, pale yellow then olive. Pores very wide in (J.4 mm). smaller at the edge, radially elongated, yel- low then oIiYi'! green, stipe t.oIlow (espe- dally in the lower part), yellow above the ring. the $arne the cap below il, with a while, scaly ring Flesh solt and thick, yeIlOWl5h-white and nOt changing (olor, No Ular<t(letiSlie odor and flavor. HABI TAT: only under The larch, In the mountains. Sum- mef through fall fairly I "iI'."""" CHALCIPORUS PIPERATUS Peppery Bolcte DESCRIPTION: H: 2-4 in (5-10 un), 0: 1'-2'.4 in (26 em). Cap convex at first then llanmed. thick in the cor.per<Cllclred. 00nam0n, or reddIsh- broMl; \leNety but viscid in weI weather. Pores wide and angulat, the same coIof as the cap. then rust or reddish. Stipe often CuMlg. sIen del; tapefing al the base, 10 reddish. bright yeUow a1 the base. Flesh soon becoming soft aoo spoogy. rAnk lOOef the cutide, pale yellow in the cap. yellow in the base 01 the stipe. Very peppery iIavof. HABITAT: mainly under conifers (pine, THE BOLETALES larch, spruce, firl. or de<iduous Iroo (birch, oak) especially in the mountains. Summef through fall. Fairly common. Inedible, much too peppery. U$Cd if a condiment in Germany and eastern Europe. '" '" BOLETUS B. ALBIDUS DESCRIPTION: H: 4-7'/. in (10-18 em), 0: 48 in (10-20 em). Cap very thid, whiti!Jl gray or beige, sometimes shaded ocher or pale brown, surfacE! velvety at first tllen 1TIQ(l' or less cracked. Pores small, bright yellow then brownish-green, turning blue when touched. Stipe very thid, globulose or ovoid at first, the base ending in a point, the same color as the (ap but bright lemon yellow at the top, covered in reti<:ulation of variable (olor, more apparent toward the top, Flesh pale, turning blue when CUI, buller flavor, 't:'
.... -. _ _ .. .___ f.i: . . , , . , .. , . , .,
HABITAT: under decidl.lOUS Irees. in parks or woods, mostly on dry, limestone soil Summer through fal l. Ur.common. DESCRIPTION: H: 4-6 in (10-15 cm). 0: in (7-15 em). Cap hemispherical then convex, pale, whitish-beige or cafe-au-/ait, and BOLETUS APPENOICULATUS Al'l'cndicul att Bolt te DESCRIPTION: H: ]A6 in (8- 15 cm), 0: 34-6 in (8-15 em). Cap hemispherical or convex. brO'tYOrsh'yellow, ocher brown, or brO'tYOish-or.lngl'. witfl Vl'f'/ thin crazing. f'oIes Vl'f'/ small, bright yellow, turning blue to the touch; tubes yellow, tuming blue immediately if touched. Stipe tflick and swollen, coming to a rounded point at the base, lemon yellow to BOLETUS CALOPUS Scarlet-stemmed Bol ete Pores small, yellow, turning green to the tOllCh and upon maturi ty. Stipe cylindrical or swol len, bright red, except at the top which is yellow; decorated with a tight retic- ulation which is very apparent. whit ish at the top of the stipe aud dalker toward the base. Flesh firm. creamy white or pale yel - low, turning faintly blue when exposed to the air: odorless biller lIavor. HABITAT: deciduous woods (oak, chest- nut, etc.) or under conifers, on dry, acidic soil. Summer through fall. Fairly common or rarer, depending on the region . dirty ocher at the base. Flesh pale )'l'11ow. may turn blue when l'1.posed \0 the air, but pinkish or brownish red in the lowe! part of the stipe: fla- vor mild, pleasant fungal odo<. HABITAT: southerly. under deciduous trees. on clay and limestone soil. Summer through early fall. Uncommon. BOLETUS fDULtS Ccp, Penny Bun Mushroom DESCRIPTION: H: 4-10 in (11) .. 25 em), 0: 2-8 in (520 an), Cap hemispllerical then convex, fleshy, quile variable In color, but typically reddish-brown or hazelnut, paler al th edge, with a margin outlined in white; $/TlOOth, vis6d in wet weather. The while pores lurn yellow quite qukkly and ewnwaHy become olive green. They do nollurn blue to the touch. The stipe is futl, very swollen or ovoid at firs!, becom- THE BOLETALES ...ill.. m ron NTIAl CONFlISION to 1"YLOI'ILUS FELLEUS Buttr Bolele 80LETUS SATANAS Sign', Bole!e POISONOVS ing more cylindriCal as it grows and CoYefed wilh a fine, white reticulation which is more obvious al the lop. though 11 is sometime partial. Flesh white, pinkish ullder the cutICle, firm, solt- enlng considerably with age; fla- vor mild, pleasant odor. HABITAT: sometimes singly, but usually in large colonies in conifer- 005 woods Scots pine, lir) and in plantations and forl.'SlS of de<iduous trees (oal:, oommoner in mixed woods, !Sp!- dally on hills or ill mid-mounlaln On acidic, well-drained soil. late summer through fall. Very com- mon and widespread. BOLETUS AESTlVALlS Summer Bo lel.., YDESCRIPTION: H: 3' -'-8 in (8 20 em), 0: 2-6 in (515 em). Cap Ilemispherical then convex.uniform in color, orange-brown or pale fawn, with a dry. almost velvety, cuticie, often finely F.D1BILITY Vtry good to tal, but often wonn.talen, ~ n leu highly prind than the Ccp. POTFNTIAL CONFUSION .. TYLOPILUS FELLEUS Smer Bolete cracked, and not viscid when weI. POfes white, lending lalef to yellow then olive- gref!n. Slipe solid and firm, slightly swollen, tinged with ocher or brownishorange, with a clearly marked reticulation O'Ier Ihe upper hall of the stipe. Flesh firm, soon becoming soft while under the (utide; pleasant odO!". sweet, mild lIavor. HABITAT: wf'II lit woods and the edges of deciduous woods (oak, l>eech, chestnut, etc). May through early fall in lowlands and highlands. (ommon and widespread. BOLETUS AEREUS Black- headed Bolclc stpitl- 'O/OffJ l't/''t/)',a" DESCRIPTION : H: 4-6 in (1015 em), 13: 21'/. in (5-18 em). Cap hemispherical and fleshy, firm in young specimens, sepia. chocolate, 01 almost black in color, matte and velvety, sometimes becoming marbled or veined with ocher or brick-red tints. Animal bi les I D1BILITY Delicious, some even prefer il 10 the ccp, but the firth softens conlidm.bty with age, so ollly young arc good. THE BOLETALES often reveal the I'ftlite flesh under- neath, Pores milk-white at first, bulbous stipe narrowing 31 the lOp, ocher or rusty brown with a faint reticulation. wtlite then turning brown. flesh very firm, while, ew1 undef the culkle, pleasant odor, mild flavor .. HABITAT: well-li t fOfestS, verges, and only uOOer deciduous trees. especially oak. Summer through early fall. Fairly com- mon in southern Europe, and on Fraoce's Atlantic coast but in warm it can be found further north. SPFCIAI 1'1 ATl IRFS Several other species or boltle which arc mistaktn for the bLKkhtadtd boltlt btaollSt the color of thtir tapS lI1.Iy vary and Ncomc dark. This is the cue, for instance with Pine Boletes and Ceps that grow under chtstnut lrtts. BOLETUS PINOPHILUS Pine DESCRIPTION: H: 10}0 an, 0: 6-18 un. Cap very fleshy and hemispherical, smooth but ohen slightly lumpy. pinkish-red, red- dishbrown, or mal\ogany. and maue. PoI"es white at firSl, then yellowgreen. Stipe very swollen,whi le 011 the top. but tinted BOLETUS SATANAS Devil's Bolete DESCRIPTI ON: H: 8 in (1020 em,) 0: 410 in (10 25 em), Cap hemispherical, !hen convex and undu- la ting. very fleshy. dirty while, ash gray, cream, pale brO'Nfl or olive, graying with age. Pores bright yellow at first then rapidly or mahogany at the bottom, with fine while reticulation at the lop. Flesh compact and white, reddishbrown under Ihe cuticle; odOf slightly resinous, mild lIavOf. HABITAT: oiten singly in forests 01 (ooifers, mainly Scots pine. as well as spruce. fir and mixed forest. usually on high ground. on add or sandy soil. Summer through fall. Fairly common in the sooth, rarer in the nOrlh; widespread. TOXICITY Poisonous, especially when raw; gastrotnlenlis attacks which some hour.! lalcr by and l"C'ptalcd
turning Ofange Of brkkred, paler al Ihe margin, tending to turn blue-black when looched; tubes then stipe very swollen and shon, extending yellow at the top and often at the base as Wfil, red in the middle. with an orange or red reticulation over the whole of SPECI AL FEATURES Many red-pored boleu:s 1ft mort or less poisonous, induding the Bolete which is only edible if weU cooked. Funhcrmorc, rrulny of these boletes aff hard to identify. For this ua- son, it is a good idea to avoid taring any boletes with red pores. THE BOLETALES POTENTIAL CONFUSI ON .. BOLETUS EDULlS Cep EDIBU .. BOLETUS ERYTHROPVS Red-stemmed Solttt Elll8U the top. Flesh white Of pale yellow, turning faintly blue when exposed to the air; faint odor. becoming tTIOfe unpleasant with mild flavor. HABITAT: clearings, verges and Wfll-lil deciduous woods (mostly oak and beech). on limestone soil. Fairly common in the south. rarer in the north, and in warm, sun- li t places. Reoccurs in the same places. Fall. DESCRIPTION: H: ]'.4-B in (B 20 em). 0: 2'H% in (l-IB em). Cap thef1 eonvex and flanened, dar k chestnut, sometimes reddish-brown or oHvaceous ocher, velvety. Pores small and dark red, turning more orange with age, yel- Ioworange on the margin, becoming dark blue immediately when touched. Stipe cyliodrieal or olten slVOllen at the base. not reticulated but densely covered With little bright red spots. aHgned more or less vertically, against a yellow background. Dcvil's Bolete POISONOUS BOLETUS ERYTHROPUS Red-stemmed Bol ete SPECIAL FEATlJRFS Oftrn misWm! for the Ikvil's Boltte. The fIt5h of many boICles, including the edible ones, I\Im5 blue when expostd to ;ur, a phenomenon of oxidation. The Red. Sltmrntd Boktt is edible and good 10 tal, wilike the DMl '$ Bokle (Boltrus 5<!ta .... s) which is poisonous whether nw or cooked. Flesh firm, bright yellow but turning dark blue a few seconds alter it is CUI, evenlually fad- ing 10 the original yel low color; untypical odor, mild flaVOf. HABITAT: verges. clear- ings. and welllit forests of deciduous trees. rarer uoder conifers; on acidic, welldrained soil, in highlands and lowlaods. Common aod widespread. BOLETUS LURIDUS Lurid Bolctc DESCRl PTl ON: H 4-8 in (1020 em). 0: H-7;4in (8-18 em). Cap hemlsp/lellcallhen convex, variable in color, ocher, yellow-brown, orange-brown, or with a velvety surface. Tubes yel- low tlltn green, turniflQ blue when cut. PoI'es yellow, soon I!.nning bullUfnrng blue to tt1f, touch. Clubshaped S\lpe. yellow al the lop, reddish-orar-.ge elsewhele. purpliSh-red al the base of the Stipe, COYt'fed In a tICk, elongated blood led rellcuiallOO, Flesh firm at yellow in the cap and the lop of the stipe. dark red in the base of the Sllpe, IUrning THE BOLETALES brightly blue when cut. The tubes and flesh of the cap ale separated by a red line; plea!>ant odOf and mild f1aYOf. HABITAT: welllil mixed or dec:idllOUs I()(MIS on limestone. soil in early summer through fall. Fairly common and WIdespread. EDIBILITY Considtred 10 bt ,-try good 10 t.ll , bur lIYy cauHd some intes.tinal UpHU. BOLETUS PULVERULENTUS I'owdcry Bolctc DESCRIPTI ON: H: in (5- 12 em), 0: '*-4 in (4-10 em), Cap hemispherical then eon- vex. flattened at the center Of slightly depressed. velvety. very variable in color from caf(!-au- lait. ocher. chocolate brtmn, Of pink. becomirg 5taifll'd blue-black to the touch. Pores bright yellow. then ILIri1] dak 1:tJ!'....t.en ,,,",,,,,,. stipe thinnirg tov.ard the XEROCOMUS PARAS/TICUS "arllSi tic Bolctc DESCRIPTION: H: 11 (4-8cm). 0: 1)1-4 11 (2-5 cm), Cap I'oembpherical then eonvex, siicjnly veIYety on! oadlog: on the suface, ocher yellow to bro'MlIsh-olive. Pores ame art! angola( ocher yellow . tlJr'lIO'!! rust colored. but nol blue- irI;I. smoolh aOO fbillose, otten Cl.I\Ied al the base. reddish- brCWl or brOM'l.FIesh thid and pale. not reddenirg v.Ml rut; flavor mild. DOOr pleasant. HAMAT: Parasitic on the Com- mon Eanhball (Scleroderma base. on! IXM'derY on top. striated or p.rnctuated With red toward the bottOOl. Flesh nstantly tLming briiflt bkJe v.Ml rut. then bladening: pleasant odor "" """. KABlTAT: oooo.ws{oaIQ
forest paths, in parks on! PrefetS lfnesIone d, Stmmer tIvooj1 fall. UncorMlon. cifrinum). II grows in 01 two or wee at the base of the Eanh-b.1llon very hunid soils. St.mmer throucjl fall. Fairly f<lfe but wKlespread. THE BOLETALES XEROCOMUS CHRYSENTERON Red-cr,'lcking Bolcte DESCRIPTI ON: H: 2-4 in (5 10 em). 0:2-4 111 (510 em). Cap Ilemisphefical !hen (OIM!K, Vill)'lng in color from grayish-yellow through brown- ish-green, reddistHlrown. yelwty at !hen U;dlng 10 IMal reddish flesh. Biles of small animals are also edged with led Pores large. angular. re110w olive- green, tuming falOlly blue to lhe touch. Stipe often sinuous. fairly {hin, may be expanded or thrnnlng at the base, yellow at the top. more 01' less striated with red else- where. Flesh !.Oft, rellow, pinkish-red under the wIKle, tuming faintly blue when cut pleasant odor and flavor. HABITAT: singly or in large 9fOOPS In deciduous or coniferous woods, on acidic or siliceous soil. Summer through lall. Very common and widespfead XEROCOMUS SUBTOMENTOSUS Downy Bolett DESCRIPTION: H 21(.6 in (7-15 em) o in (5-12 em), Cap hemispherical then (0I'IVex, cafe..au- 1dJ(, ocher olIVe, and with the texture of chamois leather. Pores wilW, espe<ially near the stipe, IIregular and arlQular, golden yel- low, ewntually IUfning green, and faintly blue to the touch. Stipe often curved, tllin or sturdy, thickemng at the base, can be as long as 6 m (15 em), yetiow, covered In coarse reddish-brown striauom which sometimes combme InlO a vagl.le nelwOrk al the lop. Flesh thick,whi te Of pale yellow, nOl lurnlng blue; pleasant odOl. mild fl avor. HABI TAT: woods and bOI'!:lefs of decidLlOllS 01 conif('fOUS woods. soften WIth the Red- cracking Bolete. on non-ukareous soil. Summef through fa!1. Fairly common and """" . ., SPfCIAL FEATURFS Spies vcry similar to tht Rrd'crackinl Bolf tt (,\'tlllCo"'''J (/'rJ'St"'trort) and Bolt te of which art various intermediate fOfrlls. XEROCOMUS BAD/uS Bay Bolete DESCRIPTION: H: 2',H% in (6- 12 em), 0: 2-6 in (515 em), Cap fleshy, hemispherical then flattened . in damp weather, velvety in dry weather, uniform in (olor, bay (chestnut) to reddish-blown. Pores lemon yellow then olive, instantly staining dark blue-green when touched. Stipe irregular. thickened or thinning, narrowet or otherwise althe base, ocher or reddish-brown all over, but slri- ,ned vertically with reddishbrown and not lellculaled. Flesh thick, soh in the cap. whitish-yellow, turning fainlly blue when cut. pleasant fungal odor, mild flavor. HABITAT: mainly in cooilerous forests. sometimes under de<iduous trees (oak, bee<:h, chestnut), or in in stumps; on acid soil. Occa- sionally in summer, but mainly in lall. Very (om- mon, widMpread through- out the temperate north- em EDIBILITY Vcry good 10 tat and nrely worm-caten, ol1cn growing in large oumbe:rs. The tough 5tipt' should be: discarded. THE BOlETALES ..ill.. m b,1J' b/ll'ol'll cap /",tS luming bluiik- grttll 10 lilt IOIIrb The Bily Bolete is one of the few bolctes whkh not form mytorrhiu with tru roolS. LECCINUM AURANTIACUM Orange Bo!ete DESCRIPTI ON: H: 4]&8 in (1120 em), 13: 48 in (1020 em). Cap globulose or hemispherical al first, barely wider than the stipe, then expanding and enlarging until it is convex, with a vel - Vf!ty cuticle which the margin, and is uniformly reddish-orange. brownish-orange. f'ofes small, while, turn SPECIAL FEATURES Of the rough.stemmed bolcrcs, the Mn to rat arc those spccit'll whose arc rinrcd with orange or reddish-brown. However, the Resh of aU the boktn in rhis group turns black when cooked. ing gray-brown With age. Stipe lough, slightly swollen toward the base, covered in small rusty or reddish-brown, granulose scales. Flesh thick, firm in the stipe. softening With age In the tap. whitish when cut, luming dlny pink and finally violet-black; pleasant odor mild and pleasant tlavor. HABITAT: under birch, aspen, and poplar 0fI damp, clay soil. Summer through fall. Fairly common in the northern hemi sphere. EDIBiliTY Good ro fir young. LECCINUM QUERCINUM Oak B.olete DESCRI PTI ON: H: 6)\8 in (1220 em, 0: 2/,6% in (6- 18 em). Cap hemispherical then convex, velvety when dry, soft finely cracked on the mar- gin. brick-red or brownish-orange, brown- ing with age. Pores fine, whit ish, ocher subsequently, slightly browning 10 the tooch. Stipe slightly thidened at the base, white, covered in small red- dish scales which later lurns brown, lIesh firm then spongy, white, turning pink or gray CUI, sometimes blue-green at the base of the stipe; odor, mild fla- "". HABITAT: under oak, chestnut, and occasionally under beech. Summer through fall. Url(ommon. THE BOLETAlES SPEUAL HATURES This specks is often (onn.sed with the OrarlSt Bolele which groW5 under decid UOU$, waltr. loving trees such as aspen and poplar. Stlllls mLlrwiNg lummg b",,"'IJ LECCINUM SCABRUM Brown Birch Bol clc DESCRI PTI ON: H: 410 in (1025 cm). 0: 26 in (515 em). Cap ~ m spherical then convex. hazelnut. gray brown or brownish yellow. slightly vel vety when dry. viscid when wet. Pores white at first. then turning gray. browning to the touch. Stipe long. widening from top to bottom. whitish but cOV1!red with linle grayishblack. crowdPd spots. Flesh soft in the cap. fibrous in the stipe. white. not blackening: odor pleasant. flavor mild. HABITAT: under birch and in mixed woods containing birch. on damp. acidIC soil. Summer through fall. Very common. SPECIAL FEATURES This is a collective ,pecies, a group of whkh Ihe various varieties art some times hard 10 diSlinguish. and which were once (DUefted under the bo\.i'lnicaJ name of Bo/rlus Slfl/>(r. LECC/NUM CARP/NUM Hornbeam DESCRIPTION: H: 4-7l'in (1018 em), 0: 2-4 in (SIO em). Cap then convex, pitted, !>Ometimes cracking in dry weather and *,hi. / Iht 10/', .. ilk. ICI<'tI.J Ihi h,Ist 1A1,lulIlll)\ ill dT)' ,,"(mJr(r THE BOLETALES wilh age. fairly soh, hazelnut or brownish- yellow, shaded ocher or fawn. Pores small and white. then dirty yellow and evenlllally turning gray. Slipe slender toward the lOp. be<oming progressively wider toward the base and very scaly, The li11le gray scales covering a paler backgrOiJnd all' aligned vertically, giving the stipe a striated look. Flesh firm in the stipe, soft in the cap; while when CUI but instantly changing 10 dark pink then \0 violet-black. Odor faint but pleasant, flavor mild, slightly acidic. HABITAT: under hornbeam, hazelnut or oak, on cool, shady soi\. On highland or lowland. Summer through fall . (ommon. Ediblt but mediocre, the soft Huh black- tn, when cooked. LECC/NUM DUR/USCULUM Poplar Solete DESCRIPTION: H: 4HA.in (12- 18 an). 0: 3';4.-6 in (8-15 cm). Cap then convex, lumpy, slightly viscid when damp, oad::- ing slightly age, gray -bfown or reddi!Jl-bfown PorllS cream thefl gray. Stipe swollef1 in the mid- dle or atlhe base, grayiSh- mUle,covered in folds which fOfm a sort of nel- SU/LLUS AMERICANUS American DESCRIPTION: H: in (4-10 (m), o , ,(4 in (310 an). Cap convex. WIth an iruoUed margm {eN' tied in yellowrsh, VIscid hairs. 81111ianl yel- low, SPOiled or slriped with red. Pofes wide and ar.gular, even elor.galed, yellow Ihen ocher, (overed in young specimens with a yetiowi!>h veil, whidlleaves no lir-.g sifl{e it is nol alla<1\ed 10 the Sllpe_ Slipe Ihin lor a 80Iete (less than 'h in (1 em)), yellow, spot- 'NOIk, and very densely doned with fine bfown scales. fle!>h fifm and while, rf<!- denir-.g at the top 01 the stipe when CUt, tUTnir-.g blue allhe bottom, and finally blademng. HABITAT: under poplar or aspen, in forllSts, beside waterways. Fall. Uncommoo. led 011 lhe lOP, the spots darkening Wllh age. flesh yeIlOW1!>h, IUTning reddl!Jl-bfown when WI HABITAT: only under pines. Summel and early fall, Very {ommoo in NOfth America. SUILLUS BOVINUS Bovine Bolctc DESCRIPTION: H: 2%-3% in (48 em), 0: 2-4 in (510 em), Cap convex then flauened and lumpy. thick at the cent!'r, wi th a thin margin, ocher or orange, shiny, viscid in damp weather. Pores large. especially close \0 Ihe slipI'. elongated and more or less aligned with the stipe, composite (divided into several compartments), yel. low-green, browning 10 the lauch. Stipe slender, ohen flexed, ()(her, covered in reddish fibrils as It ages and sometimes with pink filaments of reddish-orange mycelium at tached to the basl'. Flesh soft THE BOLETALES '" '" and elastic, whi tish'yeliow; Pleasant odor, mild flavor. HABITAT: in groups, only under pines. in IClem or heaths on acidic !>Oil, on high. land or lowland. lale summer through fall. Found all over the world. SUILWS VARIEGATUS Speckled Bolete DESCRIPTION: H: 2',.,4 1 ,. in (612 em), 0: 2'1.-6 in (6-15 em). Cap hemispherical then flattened with a thin margin, ocher, orange, or brown- ish'yellow, later turning olivaceous. Vel\lf!ty al first then finely granulose. slightly viscid in wet weather. Pofes small and angUlar. yellowish then brownishgreen, turning SPECIAL FFATURES 1'hi$ and 1M SpkkcI Bokte arc the only specia of SuJ/us growing IIndu piM wbo5c Mipt has no ring or granulation. faintly blue to the touch'stipe long and sturdy, yel lowish. Flesh fi rm, rapidl y sohening, pale yellow, faintly blueing, when CUI; faint odOf of bleach, mild but unpleasam flavor. HABITAT: coni ferous woods. pine, in the mountains, mainly on acidic Of sandy soil. late summer through lall. Common. SUILWS GRANULATUS Yellow Pine BolclO! DESCRIPTION: H: 3:4-5 in (815 on), 0: in (5-12 em). Cap hemispherical or cooical\hef1 convex, yellowish-orange to reddish-brown, unl form, very viSCid when silq and maue in dry weathef, With it cullde that ow/taps the rrargin and is easily detach- able. Pores small, yel low, bright yellow, and finally red- dish, exuding milky drops in young Stipe solid and firm, while or pale yel low. the lop uudes the !.ame milky drops as the pores. later presentlll9 red THE BOLETALES
, .. dish or brownish granutatioM. Flesh thICk, while or yellow, unchanging wtlen cut. Spicy odor and navor. HABITAT: in groups, only tinder pines (5<015 pint', Ausuian pine, Aleppo pine, etc.), often in the grass and prefefs lirTleStOl'lf soil. In looNIand and high- land.lale summer tITou;1I fal.1/efy CClITI'I'Ol along the European Atlantic: coast, less so elswhere. 1-- .""hl ' I>IBILITY Good 10 UI, although it rnldl 10 M indi- gntiblt. The: viKid, bittn- C\loclc must M diJankd btJorr pnpuatioa. SUILLUS LUTEUS Slippery Jack DESCRIPTION: H: /. in (7-13 em), o 2611 In (5 12 em). Cap expaoorng very late, very viscid and stkky, mostly chocolate brown in color, SOrl1ellmes reddish brown Of ocher, wuh \hln, darker stripes; tiny shreds of the white veil are attached to the margin, and the cuticle 1$ easily sep- arable. Pores Wlall and rounded, lemon yt'I. low, IUfnlng green with age. Stipe lailly short, thid:: and sturdy, sometimes bent FIl IBIlITY Good 10 U f, Ind considtrtd 10 be tht bot" of ali long as Ih( slimy, bitter cuhck is fiQI discarded, and only younl splmrnl n l t n. cytil'ldllcal and slightly thickened at the base, firm and fibrous, white to yellow, with tiny reddish granula- II00S al top. and with 11 WIde membra- nous nng. white thef1 vioIetbrown. Flesh thiek, film at then bKomll'lg wit, wtll\lsh to pale yellow, and yel - lower ill the ba!.e of the stipe; pleasant odof, mild flavor. HABITAT: in groups, only under pines, mainly Scots pin!.', in the grass, at road sides, and beside ditches. Fall. Commoo throughout the Nonhe!n Hemisphere. especially in w.vmer parts. SUllLUS GREVIHEI Larch Softie DESCRIPTION: H 2)1-6 in (6-15 em). 0: 24 In (510 em). Cap IlemisphelH:al then Of flattened, might lemon yellow to orange-yellow. very shiny and viscid. Pores hidden by a white veil ill young spec.imerl, lemon yel- low, tuming reddish Of pinkish gray 10 the tooch. Stipe ohef! slightly iwollen al the base, uniform yellow below the ling and with reddish velllS above it. The ring is whUish and woolly, forming a ridge. FIMh pale In the cap, blIght yellow in the Stipe. velOed with VIOlet when (ut; pleasant odor and flaV()(. THE BOlETAlES ,<2 '<l HABITAT: ooly lim larch in parks and plantations, in avenues among Ihe grass, sometimes qUite far from the trei!,in high. lands and lowlands. Summer through fall. Fairly common. Ediblt but The ,limy cuticle should lit discarded, SUILLUS VISCID US Slippery Larch Solcle DESCRIPTION; H: 2t1i-6 in (7-15 em). 0: 2-4 in (510 em), Cap hemispheocal then convex Of flattened, extremely viscid, surface slightly wrinkled, beige then gray-brown. turning greenish- gray With age; the edge sometimes retains the remainsol thewtlitrsh vtil in the fOfrn of wall shreds. The pores are large, irregular. pale. then turntng brown or grayish-gret'f1. The Sllpe is whitish or )'fllowish above the ring. dirty red or brown below it; thto ring is wide and white al first. then flattened against the stem i!fld browning. The flesh is soh, whitish, turning gray or brown in places when cut. The odor is faint and flavor mild. HA8ITAT: only under larch, whethel wild Of cultIVated, in la.vIands and highlafldi. Prefers liml'stone soil. Early summer lhrough fall. (ommoner in the mountains. Edible but very poor rating, as the fltsh i. soh and spongy- GOMPH/DIUS GLUT/NOSUS Glutinous Gomphidiu$ DESCRIPTION: H: 2)15)1 in (1-13 an). 0: 2-4 in (510 (m). Cap conical and umbonate, then WIth a flattened lop. becoming hmel-shaped 'Mth age. co.oered WIth a thick, geiatll'lOUS film; the margill remains inrolkd for a long time arid is attached to the stipE! by a glutinous 'Jf!il ill young specimens, whrll is cafe-au-lal/, rpJ- viole\, then rEddish./lftM/f1 in color, staining black when touched. The cuticle is easily FDlBIiITY Good 10 ut, ;as IofIJ as the visrid (\Icicle: is fe_cd, but the 8rsh bUickcns dur- ing cooking_ THE BOLETALES .l!!. '" completely separable from the cap. Gills broad, widely 5pilCed, dl!ru'renl, IllQII! or Ie!.s fab!d, of a vmy consistency ....tut1Sh !hen blackish. 'M'/ easily separated from the rest 01 the cap. ~ not very thid:. at the base. wry 'Iiscid, white exCfPI at the base ....nidi is lemon yellow and with a small riN;I 01 brown scales. Flesh thick. only a1 the center of the cap, while, bright yellow at the base of the Stipe; odorless, mikl i'l1\a<.<J. HABITAT: anfl!fOUS f o r ~ (!opIUCe II the rr(JU'Itairts, pines in the k7N1ands) especiaIy at the edge 01 the woods. Surmer tht'ourjl fall . Fairty common and WIdespread. )"Bo.- {/all'" I'" /Nut of 1M Ibllt CHROOGOMPHUS RUTIWS. GOMPHIDIUS VISCIDUS Coppery Gomphidius DESCRIPTI ON: H: 2'H in (7-1S (m), 0: 2-4 in (S-10 (m). Cap (ol1lcal, sometlfnes becoming umbon- att, the margrn remarnll"lg inrolled, VI!.Cid, copptf-colored, reddish-brown or dart. red, palei' as it ages. Gills 'o'tfY WIdely spaced and de<urrtnt, U$ity detachable from !he rest of the cap, re!ldi!oh-ocher then dark brown with age. Stipe often Ioog, gerreralty thinner at tht lop Of bottom and swollen toward tht middle, marked with reddish lOOes Of (OV- ered With small scales flattened against it. Edible but medioc:re, nOI IlS popullr as the GlurinO\l$ Gomphidiu:s. Flesh (lange-yellow With a tendency to redden. odorless and With a mild ,"",,- HABITAT: under conifers" IIf!fY chen pines. larer I.I'Idtr ~ t s0me- times even around indi- viOJaI tree. It or meadows. late sum- mer thlOugh fall. fairly o:mna'l and wdespread. PAXILLUS INVOLUTUS Brown Roll -rim DESCRIPTI ON: H: 2}l.4% in (6-12 (m), 0: 26 in (5-15 em), Cap convex at first biJt soon becoming depressed in the center, !.Omelimes umbonate, with a margin which remains inrolled for a long time, more or less fluted; surface velvety or cracked in dry weather, viscid in weI weather, cinnamoo or brownishocher, Gills very crowded, narrow, and durr'nl, V1!ry forked, beige then rust, gradually turning brown 10 the touch, until they become dark brown some minutes laler. Stipe (enlral or slightly excentric, fibriilose, of the same color as the cap, staining blown when touched. Flesh thick and soh, pale )'1!lIow or pale brown, browning when exposed to the air as well as when rubbed. Fruity odor, slightly bitter flaVl)(. HABITAT: under deciduous THE BOLETALES .lli- '" trees, l'SpeCially birch, bUI also chestnut, poplar. or under (ooifers in the mountains. in parks. on lawns. on the ground Q( on old, rotting stumps. on damp, acidic soil. from early summer through late fall. Extremely common and widespread. TOXICITY The Brown Roll-rim LlS('d to be consid ered edible, but it has causcd " riou' caKS of poisoning, somc of them fatal. It is mort poisonous when rilW. PAXILLUS ATROTOMENTOSUS Slack-stemmed Roll-rim DESCRIPTION: H: 2:47V, in (6-18 an), 0: 4-10 In (10-25 em), Cap CorM!X then funnel-shaped, kidney- or WlI-shaped, !he margin remaining inrolled for a long 11ITIe, brOWflish-oc:h!r or brown- ish-yellow,veNety then ITIOft or rMUred. Gills oowded, branched, bonded tagelhe!' at the base, eMily separable 'rom the rest of the cap. oeam 10 yellow, brown- ing to the touch. Stipe and thick, often excenlric. covered with a very dense brownishblack down.F1esh soft and spcJfI9y ....tI'le to pale yellow, brown in the Stipe; odofless. IIavof molt Of less biller. HABITAT: in tufts Ofl (ooifef stumps or lOOts. Suml'Oef thlough tafly fall. Uncommon. OMPHALOTUS ILWDENS Deceiving Funnel-cap DESCRIPTION: H: 3)!71' in (8 18 (m, 0: in (6-15 on). Cap slightly COI'M!X ill rust, wllh vert inrolled margin, then c\epfessed in the center but relairng its Rolled ITIafg"'. Surface smooth and matte, may bea:lrroe V'tfY slightly scaly al the center. to Ofangt'-yeUow Of apricot G!IIs very crC7Mled, thin, decufrenl, of the same coler as the tap. Stipe pale yellow. splndleshaped, ending In a pomt althe base and fused \'11th the Slipes of olber speamens. from whICh it is easily separable. flesh firm, fiblou5 in the stipe; fairly strOllg and unpleasant odor, similar 10 that produced by the Clouded Agaric (Clitocybe nebu/gns). HABITAT: forms dense and voluminous Ilk on old logs 01 various decidUCIUS trees. espe<ially oal::. Ohen grows on roots or buned stumps. Summer throogh lall. Uncommon, probably originalM from North America, but also found in Europe. ponNTI AL (ONI t JSI ON .. CANTHAREUUS CIBAR/US Chantertllc Eol.8u .. HYCROPIIOROPSIS AURANTIACA False Chanlerelle EDlBU THE BOLETALES 2i!.. '" OMPHALOTUS OLEARIUS Jilek O' Lantern DESCRIPTION: H: 2H in (7-15 em), 0: 2'h4)/, in (6 12 em), Cap (OI'IvtlI then bec:olmng depressed in the center, and finally funnel'shaped but retaining a more or less inrolled margin, yt!lIow orange to brownish-orange. Sl'Iiny, decurrent gills, yellow-orange. thin, and crowded, easily separable from the r O Tf NTIAl (ONllISION .. CANTHARELLUS CI8AR/US ChamcrtJle EDlBl[ cap, Stipe long. undulating. ahen uc!!n Iric, striated, the same color the cap, stained brownisll gray. f lesh very fibrous, bright yellow. HABITAT: in tufls at the base of tree on the branches of dedduous trees or on the ground, 910WIIlg on buried roots. Summer throogh fall. Ottile common in the south. THE BOLETALES HYGROPHOROPSIS AURANTIACA FJJse Chantcrcllc DESCRIPTI ON: H: 1/.-2'11 in (3-6 em), 0: 1'/.2'/'ln (37 em), Cap COO'o'eX but SOO'l depressed the margin nolled for it krIg time. .., .,.. .". .,.,'" ........ ,'" ,..".. owge to scme\Il'IES d."Itb!r in the center. GIs 00Mi!d. deamnt. very fat2d. StIpe thin iWld at the base. smooth and o:riaa'Ot.t5, beooming hobv, da!k at the base; flaccid ard elastic, no partICUlar cdof 0' HABITAT: i1 In conifE!f005 fore5ts, dally pine, sometimes 5pIUCf. on the cr on very rotten. burled tr.nhes. late !ol.mI'l1eI tI1roucjl fal. Common and widesplead. I'DlBILlTY Wrongly accllnd of bring poisonoul. In fact, it is quilt good to ut though tht n"h is r.nhtr !JOft. GEASTRUM SESSILE Sessile Earth SUlr DESCRIPTION: 0: 1/'-2 10 (3-5 em), The Sessile Eanh SIal' 01 an OUlef segmented part and a (ermal pari. The outef part consim of SIX to nifW! smooth lJIangular segments, aeamy-whlll! 10 ocher in color. In wei 'ffl!alher they are stJelched out parallel to the earth and in dry weather they are incurved, raising the central part up from rtle ground. The sphefkal center is the same color as the seg- ments. or slightly grayish ocher, Their consistency Is similar to that of wasps' nests or parch- ment. The lOp is pelforaled with a little hole with an Irregular, loothed edge. The flesh Is coria- ceous and has flO pankular odor. HABITAT: Ohen in coionie\ on moss or needles in (oorfefous or mixed forest s. Summef and early fall, Widespread. , ------- THE GASTEROMYCETES ,S< 15S GEASTRUM TRIPLEX Triple Earth Star DESCRIPTION: H: %-2 in (2-S em). 0: 2 in (l-S em) 2%-(6-12 em) (open). In its young state, the lungus is ovoid and subterranean. II develops in a spher- ical form in two parts, an external part which splits into five 10 seven segmenls, (ream then turning gray. about '10 in (0.5 em) thick, which expands and wraps sri CIAL fI ATURF.S GUSlrrs art strange fungi whose oolanitllJ namt means Mu.rth SGr. ' ASTRAEUS HYGROMETRICUS Hygrometric Earth Star DESCRIPTION: 0: % 4 in (210 em). The furqJS consists of I'MI !he cenual gIobulose part aboot I in (2.5 em) 11 v.t1k:h ioI pale rpf, aod pierted at!he top with a small aifce. and !he OOlef p.:rt v.t.k:h ioI brtl'Ml 10 a six 10 ten txanched star (sometimes there are even rnCife branchesl, The tTcInches ere fused at !he base, and !he SlKface is crad.ed.1Nhen !he air becomes tOO dry, the tTcInches fad back into the eenlet; endosilY!! the globe. Flesh brO'Ml at mall.xiry. HABITAT: clearings. hedgerows, decidUOlli (oak) Of cOfli feroos ipne) vee. on sandy, rather itself under- neath the fungus. becoming split CfOSS- wise.The cent ral part is globulose and opens a1 the tOp in a liny slar-shaped opening, surrounded by a white circle, from which the spores afe emili e<!. HABITAT: DeCldllOus or coniferous forests, parks. Fall. Uncommon. acXic soil. late sunmer throur/l early faO, but may persist for several months in the (ty stale. Widespread but uncommon. LYCOPERDON PYRfFORME Stump Puffball DESCRIPTION: H: 1'1\-3'11 in (3-8 em), 0: (1-4 (rn.) Pear-shaped fungus, consisting of a round, head, swollen al the top. in which a pore opens at maturity, and Ihere is a large stipe which narrows toward the bOllom which is no longer Ihan Ihe cap. It is creamy-white, later turning brown and covered in short. fragile spines. The base of the stipe is extended by long white, downy filaments which dig inlo worm-eaten wood. The flesh is white, turning olive green, except Ihe lower part of the cap which remains while, Unpleas- ant odor, mild flavor. HABITAT: In tufts on old logs and Ihe ronen wood of various deciduous trees, LYCOPERDON PERLATUM Common Puffball DESCRIPTION: H: 1% 3'" in (49 em), 0: 11' 214 i in (l-6 em). More or less pear-shaped, creamy white arid covered in liule papillae of differ- ent sizes looking like tiny pearls. cream then ocher and finally olive- Drown when the wrface is smooth. The top opens at a perforallon situated on one protuberance in the center of the cap. The stipe is largely splayed in a reverse sometimes half-buried. Fall throu9h early winter. fairly common. THE GASTEROMYCETES 356 '" cooe shape. and cootains sevefal folds. The flesh is while al first, be<oming yellowish. Edible when young and tht f1e$1r. is $till whilt but mediocre. LYCOPERDON ECHINATUM Spiny Puffball DESCRIPTI ON: H: 1;4.2'..' in (H cm), 0: 1 'A2 in (]5 em), Globe-shaped and carried on a very shon stem tNrvlPJ loward the ba5e.ermre/y retXlish- brtwn and w.oered with soft spines about '.4 in (0.50 em) long. in of three or flU, The spines fall oft leaving a retic.ulated SlKfoce.1here is brown, and lending \0 eventually turning brown and powdery. HABITAT: In clumps in de<iduous or coniferous foresls. more rarely in meadows. Summer through fall. Very common and widespread. pore in the top v.+Iidl enables the sr.cres to be released .. The flesh is white ar;j firm at fllSt, """ ,........., """'""", "" '""" poMIoy, HABITAT: Bee<:h forests on limestone !.Oil. Fall. Uncommon. BOVISTA PLUMBEA Leaden l'uflball DESCRIPTI ON: a: IPA in (14 em), Spherical and devoid of a stipe. The exter- nal envelope is thick and pure white, and peels iNlay to reveal aoothef interior cover- ing that is lead gray, with a pore in the top. Flesh white then brown, and be<oming SI'FCIAL FF.ATURfS The I.udcn PuffbaU is only attached to the soil weakly, and when mature the lint puff of wind an 'MT)' the whole fn, iting.body far away, thus enabling ;1 10 diumlinalc its spores. CALVATIA UTRIFORMIS 5.'tddJc.sh:ll'cd Puffball DESCRIPTI ON: H: 24% in (5-12 em), 0: 26 in (S 15 (m). Fungus pear-shaped al first, wilh a white globuloS!! top, covered in small pyramid-shaped warlS which turn into a lorna, leaving only their polygonal base behind.The fungus then turns gray- brown and the cap splits along its o ~ diameter. The bottom is barely wider than the powdery when ma1Ure. HABITAT: in small groups in meadows, pastures. and roadsides. Summer through fall. Fairly com- mon. top tape!"ing at the base; it dOl!s not de<ay and can remain in the same place for sev- eral months wit h the base of the cap at the top. !.haped like a small ClIp. The flesh is white and spongy. eventually turning yel lowi!.hgreef1, and final ly olive brown. HABITAT: Lawns and Ofchards. especially in the mountains. Summer through early fall. Fairly common. THE GASTEROMYCETES CAlVATIA EXCIPULIFORMIS Pestl e Puffball DESCRIPTION: H: 21'7:' In (718 em). 0: 24 in (5-10 em). Fungus comislll'lg altwo parts. The upper part is globulose. wl'ule then!oOOfl turn- ing ocheI, and the Ia.w part is IN! SIIpE!. The upper part IS sooo (OYefed with linle soft, pointed warlS whi<h 'aU off rather quickly. The fungus splits aooss the WIdth when mall/re, to release the spores. The stipe is !\all the width of the lIEoad and represeflts hall the height of the lungm,11 is wrinkled, folded, granulose, lim wMe then ocher. LANGERMANIA GIGANTEA Giant Puffball DESCRIPTION: 0: 6-6 in (1 $-40 em). Large round white shape, apparently rest- ing on tile 9101.100. smooth but lumpy. pit ted with shallow depressions, matt. later stained Wi th ocher, to the touch, like chamois leather. Flesh white, soh to spongy, yt!lIowing, then turning olive- brown. Faint odor. mild, plea!>ant lIavor. HABITAT: in meadows. well-lit woods 01 deciduous or coniferous trees and parks. Summer through fall. Ull(om- mon \0 common, HABITAT: singly or in groups, In parks. on lawns, beside hedgerows, olten on nitrogenous soils. Summer through fall. Uncommon and grows agam in the same places each VASCELLUM PRATENSE Mcadow I,,,,f!ball DESCRI PTION: 0: in em). Globulose, slightly flattened at the top. white then ocher, linally pale brown upon malurity. The surface is (overed in tiny warlS which evenwally disappear. The top tears into ooe large openir.g through which the spores ts(ape in the form of a gray dust. The sope is very short or absent. flesh whIte and spongy rn your.g then oIivebrown afld
powdery. II seen in vertKal section, the upper, fertile pan can be seen to be separated from the Iowef sterile part by means of a membrane. HABITAT: meadows. roadsides. lawns, heaths. Summer throogh fall. Common.
Mushrooms, Curative - Growing Medicinal Mushrooms at Home The Easy Way - The Simplest & Cheapest Way To Grow Medicinal Mushrooms at Home Even If You Have Never Grown Anything Before Now. (2021) PDF