Safe Mushroom Foraging - Amazon Web Services
Safe Mushroom Foraging
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DisclaimerThis field guide is not intended to be comprehensive. Manyof the concepts in this guide have been simplified to fit aminimal text format, and to accommodate new learners.This guide focuses only on common wild mushrooms andother common fungi in Iowa, including those that are oftenreported to cause poisoning. Because this guide does notinclude extensive information based on microscope use andspore prints, it should be used only as an educational andreference tool to compare look-alike (poisonous and nonpoisonous) species and appreciate the role of mushroomsand other fungi in nature.Many books and online resources are available to helpyou learn more about wild mushrooms and other fungi inIowa and their correct identification (see reference andresources sections on page 76).The information in this publication is only a guide, theauthors and ISU assume no liability for practicesimplemented based on this information.COMMON IOWA MUSHROOMS MAY BE POISONOUSOR DEADLY.YOU ACKNOWLEDGE THAT THE CONSUMPTION OF ANYWILD MUSHROOMS IS AT YOUR OWN RISK.YOU MAY BE ALLERGIC OR SENSITIVE TO WILDMUSHROOMS, EVEN WHEN THEY ARE CONSIDEREDEDIBLE BY OTHERS OR IN THE LITERATURE, AND YOURECOGNIZE THAT EATING LARGE QUANTITIES OF ANYWILD MUSHROOMS MAY BE DANGEROUS.YOU UNDERSTAND AND AGREE THAT YOU ARERESPONSIBLE FOR ENSURING WILD MUSHROOMS HAVEBEEN APPROPRIATELY IDENTIFIED BY A COMPETENTAND EXPERIENCED MUSHROOM SPECIALIST PRIOR TOCONSUMPTION.3
IntroductionIn Iowa and other Midwestern states, thousands of fungal species can be found inwoods, pastures, and lawns, as well as other habitats. Their primary role in naturecan range from being recyclers (decomposers) of wood and herbaceous matter,mutually beneficial to associated organisms, or detrimental to trees, insects,and other organisms. In many cases, their role in nature is unknown. In this fieldguide, we use the following symbols to indicate current understanding of the roleof specific fungi in nature*:Mutualist/beneficialAn organism that obtains nourishment througha mutually beneficial relationship with anotherliving organism (both organisms benefit).Many fungi are mutualists with trees such asoaks and pines, bringing nutrients and waterfrom soil to their host tree and getting sugarsin exchange.Parasite/harmfulAn organism that obtains its nourishmentfrom another living organism to the detrimentof that host. Some fungi are parasites of plants,animals, or even other fungi.4Saprobe/decomposerAn organism that obtains nourishment fromdead organisms. Fungi are the most importantdecomposers of wood, recycling nutrients fromthe wood that ultimately becomes available toother organisms.Unknown ecologyThe ecology of many fungi is unknown.*These definitions are simplifications of diverseand complex relationships that occur in nature.
What are mushrooms?Fruiting bodies of fungi come in many different shapes andsizes, and each shape has a specific name such as mushrooms,puffballs, and boletes. In a strict sense, mushrooms arefungal fruiting bodies that are fleshy and consist of a capand gills (thin plates or lamella). They may or may not have astalk. However, in this book, a broader definition of the termmushroom is used to represent any macroscopic fruiting bodyor reproductive structure formed by fungi in two major groups:Basidiomycota and Ascomycota.The major part of the life cycle of a mushroom is spent in avegetative state as microscopic filaments (hyphae) within thesubstrate from which a given species is able to obtain nutrients(soil, leaf debris, wood, roots). These hyphae can form acomplex net known as mycelia. Under certain conditionsthat may involve temperature, moisture, or lifecycle stage,the mycelia will organize into fruiting bodies or reproductivestructures, where spores will be produced. Spores serve todisperse the fungus and start new fungal colonies.5
Figure 1. Diagram of the simplified life cycle of a basidiomycete. Basidiospores are produced onbasidia lining the gills. The spore germinates to produce mycelia, which develops into button, youngand ultimately mature mushroom fruiting body.The Basidiomycota produce their spores on structures calledbasidia (Figure 1). In mushrooms, the basidia line the gills, tubes,teeth, wrinkles, or flat surfaces usually found on the undersideof a cap. Common examples of this group include the buttonmushroom (Agaricus bisporus) commonly sold in local grocerystores and the deadly Amanita species found in woodlands.6
Figure 2. Diagram of the simplified life cycle of an ascomycete (Morel). Ascospores are producedwithin asci that line the cavities of the morel cap.The Ascomycota produce their spores within sacs (asci). Inmost macroscopic Ascomycota, the asci are produced in cupshaped to columnar fruiting bodies, with various shaped caps.The most famous examples are morels (Morchella species)and truffles (Tuber species) (Figure 2).Under conducive environmental conditions, Morchella speciesspores germinate to form mycelia. Masses of mycelia matureto become sclerotia. Sclerotia germinate into mycelium thatwill give rise to fruiting bodies.7
Characteristics that help mushroom identificationCHARACTERISTICSASCOMYCOTAPresence or absence of universal veilxCaps have gills, pores, teeth or tubesCaps are cup or saucer-shaped or columnar withcavities or lobesxxGill attachment to the stalkxColor of spores in mass (from spore print)xStalk characteristics (or absence thereof)xxSingle vs cluster of mushroomsxxHabitat (wood, lawn, soil, etc.)xxSeason (by geographic area)xxSome mushrooms have distinctive characteristics that areeasy to identify. Others are less distinctive and edibles mayhave dangerous look-alikes that only experts can recognize.Are all mushrooms safe to eat?Many mushrooms can be a great source of nutrients forwildlife and humans. Mushrooms cannot make their foodas plants do. Instead, they have enzymes that help thembreak down and absorb nutrients present in their substrate.This is why some species of fungi can be used to cleanup contaminated areas. We have learned to harness theirability to absorb, capture, and sequester complex moleculesincluding toxic byproducts.Mushrooms may contain a variety of toxic compounds thatcan cause a range of ill effects, including various degrees ofupset stomach, hallucination, and organ failures that can leadto death.Knowledge about which mushrooms are tasty and safe to eathas been accumulated over time and passed down throughgenerations. However, mushrooms that are safe to eat in oneregion may have poisonous look-alikes in another. Even withinthe same area, some edible mushrooms may be difficult todistinguish from poisonous species. Therefore, identifying aspecimen properly and being familiar with its characteristics,timing of appearance, habitats and look-alikes is imperative,though not always easy. Do NOT eat any mushroom that hasnot been properly identified.8BASIDIOMYCOTA
Mushroom mythsThe following are 6 FALSE 6 statements preserved inoral tradition that can result in serious injury or death if takenas truthful.6 All mushrooms are edible6 All toadstools are poisonous6 All mushrooms that grow on wood are safe to eat6 White mushrooms are safe to eat6 Mushrooms eaten by animals are also safe for humans to eat6 Cooking, pickling, or drying poisonous mushrooms will makethem safe to eat6 Mushrooms that change color after being scraped witha silver coin or spoon are safe to eatFigure 3. Morel mushrooms with advanced (left) and intermediate (right) signs of decay.Avoid picking decayed mushrooms.99
Edibility, toxicity, and sensitivity to mushroomsIt is not known why toxic compounds are present in certainmushrooms. They may have evolved to repel or discouragemunching by animals before spores are mature. Mushroomtoxins and taste are not related; poisonous Amanita species,for example, may have a neutral taste and yet are deadly to eat.Poisoning symptoms may or may not be experienced rightaway. Depending on the toxin, symptoms may appear within15 minutes, 6 hours, 36 hours, or may not show up for 1-3weeks. The amount of toxin in a particular mushroom may varywithin fungal populations or regions, and toxin variants amonggeographical areas or habitats may also exist. The amountnecessary to harm a human may also vary depending on bodyweight. A child is much more vulnerable than an adult. Smalldogs are also more vulnerable than adult humans.Considerable numbers of mushroom poisonings continueto occur every year, even when eating mushrooms that areconsidered edible.These instances may be related to the following factors: Degree of sensitivity, which varies among people Quantity eaten Eating old or rotten mushrooms (Figure 3) Eating raw or insufficiently cooked mushrooms Eating a mixture of mushroom species Drinking alcohol within five days of eating certainmushroom species Eating improperly handled or stored mushrooms(plastic bags) Eating mushrooms from contaminated soil or surroundingenvironmentFor extensive information about mushroom toxicity, consultthe following titles in the references and resources section(page 76):1) Mushrooms and other fungi of the Midcontinental UnitedStates, and2) Don’t Pick Poison.10
Mushroom huntingWhat to take Wax paper and brown paper bags A basket, bucket, or cooler with handle A sharp knife, small trowel, and magnifying glass A soft bristle brush and small ruler Note pad or index cards, pen/pencil Local guide to tree species in the area Hiking gear (a walking stick can come in handy forsafety and to help clear the ground), insect repellent,cellphone or compass, whistle, food, and waterBest practices Respect private property Learn key characteristics of mushrooms being hunted, andlearn to correctly identify their poisonous look-alikes. Avoid over-mature specimens; before collecting, inspectthe mushroom for bruises, slime, fuzz, insect larvae, or otherinsect signs/activity. Harvest above soil level (soil debris may be an undesirablesource of contamination) Remove and clean dirt or debris from mushrooms as theyare harvested with a clean soft brush Store harvest in paper bags or wax paper while in transit;avoid plastic bags since they retain moisture and are proneto condensation which promotes decay Keep specimens wrapped or packed separately Keep from direct sun or warm/hot temperatures; refrigeratesoon after harvest11
How to use this guideThis guide has three sections:1. Mushroom fruiting calendar2. Mushroom Profiles3. References and resources1. Mushroom calendar: when to look?The calendar on pages 14-17 shows the months when a mushroomspecies has been recorded in Iowa and other parts of the upperMidwest. The dates of the actual appearance of any one speciescan vary widely from year to year and is primarily based onenvironmental conditions, including ground temperature, timingof rainfall, amount of precipitation, and season.2. Mushroom profilesEach page contains one mushroom with1) key characteristics;2) common habitat where it can be found;3) the estimated month(s) they may appear in nature, dependingupon environmental conditions; and4) mushrooms that may be mistaken as the profiled species(look-alikes).12
On each page are symbols that indicate if the profiled mushroomis known to be poisonous, considered edible or inedible, orif their toxicity is unknown. These designations are definedas follows:Choice or edibleNot edibleKnown edible, not poisonous. Individualsensitivity, including allergies, may occur.The texture or flavor makes it not good to eat.PoisonousToxicity unknownKnown to cause discomfort, illness, or deathif eaten.No information on toxic compounds produced.13
Mushroom calendar: when to look?NOT ASABUNDANT tyDiffersAmongSpeciesCaution,specificson eachmushroomprofile14PAGE COMMON NAMESCIENTIFIC NAME19Half-Free MorelMorchella punctipes20Common Morel,White Morel, Grey MorelMorchella americana21Common Eastern Black MorelMorchella angusticeps22Smooth Thimble CapVerpa conica23Wrinkled Thimble CapVerpa bohemica24Beefsteak False MorelGyromitra brunnea25Carolina False MorelGyromitra caroliniana26White Elfin SaddleHelvella crispa group27SaddleHelvella stevensii28Cabbage Leaf HelvellaHelvellaacetabulum group29Devil's UrnUrnula craterium30Crimson Cup, Scarlet Elf CupSarcoscypha austriaca31Palomino Cup, Recurved CupPeziza varia32Tippler's Bane, Common Ink Cap Coprinopsis atramentaria33Inky Caps, Mica CapsCoprinellus micaceus34Shaggy ManeCoprinus comatus35Oyster (Pearl) MushroomPleurotus ostreatus36Golden Oyster MushroomPleurotus citrinopileatus37Elm Pleurotus,White Clamshell MushroomHypsizygus tessulatus38ChanterellesCantharelluscibarius group39Scotch Bonnet, Fairy RingMarasmius oreades40Giant PuffballCalvatia gigantea41PuffballsLycoperdon species42Hard Puffballs, EarthballsScleroderma species43Bulbous Honey MushroomAmillaria gallica44Honey MushroomArmillaria mellea45Sulphur Shelf,Chicken of the WoodsLaetiporus sulphureus46Velvet Stem, Winter MushroomFlammulina velutipes
JANFEBMARAPRMAYJUNJULAUGSEPOCTNOVDEC15
NOT ASABUNDANT tyDiffersAmongSpeciesCaution,specificson eachmushroomprofile16PAGE COMMON NAMESCIENTIFIC NAME47King BoleteBoletus edulis group48Bitter BoleteTylopilus felleus group49Hedgehog Mushroom,Sweet Tooth MushroomHydnum repandum50Bear’s Head Tooth FungusHericium americanum51Chicken of the Woods,Hen of the WoodsGrifola frondosa52Lobster MushroomHypomyces lactifluorum53Meripilus sumstinei54Giant Polypore,Black-staining PolyporeAborted Entoloma,Shrimp of the Woods55Blackening RussulaRussuladissimulans group56Red Brittlegills, SickenerRussula emetica group57Green RussulaRussulaparvovirescens group58Wooly MilkcapLactarius torminosus59Tawny MilkcapLactifluus volemus60WebscapsCortinarius group61Fairy FingersClavaria vermicularis62Golden CoralRamaria aurea63Death AngelAmanita bisporigera64False Parasol, Green Gill6566Stinking Parasol,Stinking DapperlingWhite Dapperling,White Agaricus MushroomChlorophyllummolybdites67Meadow Mushroom, Pink Bottom Agaricus campestris68Flat Top AgaricusAgaricus placomyces69Jack-O-Lantern MushroomOmphalotus illudens70Deadly GalerinaGalerina marginata71Torn FibercapInocybe rimosa72Black TrumpetCraterelluscornucopoides73Artist's ConkGanoderma applanatum74Dryads Saddle,Pheasant’s Back MushroomPolyporus squamosus75Turkey TailTrametes versicolorEntoloma abortivumLepiota cristataLeucoagaricusleucothites
JANFEBMARAPRMAYJUNJULAUGSEPOCTNOVDEC17
Mushroom Profiles18
Half-Free MorelMorchella punctipes (formerly known as M. semilibera)Some peoplereact badly toconsuminghalf-free morelmushrooms.Best qualitywhen young.CHOICE OR EDIBLEUNKNOWN ECOLOGYCLOSE UP OF CAP ATTACHMENTKEY CHARACTERISTICS Hollow caps have pits and attach halfway downthe stalk draping out like a skirt. Hollow stalk.HABITATGrows on the ground in open wooded areas,edges of dense hardwoods, old orchards, andsometimes in lawns or pastures from the GreatPlains eastward.LOOK-ALIKESVerpa conica and Verpa bohemica (pages 22, 23)TIMING Mid-April to end of May19
Common Morel, White Morel, Grey MorelMorchella americana (formerly known as M. esculentoides,M. esculenta, M. deliciosa, and M. crassipes)CHOICE OR EDIBLEUNKNOWN ECOLOGYCLOSE UP OF CAP ATTACHMENTKEY CHARACTERISTICS Sponge-like cap grey, yellow, or white in colorwith lighter ridges and darker elongated pits.Hollow stalk.HABITATGrows on the ground in woodlands.LOOK-ALIKESMorchella ulmariaTIMING Early April to May20
Common Eastern Black MorelMorchella angusticepsKnown to becomepoisonouswhen consumedwith alcohol.CHOICE OR EDIBLEUNKNOWN ECOLOGYPOISONOUSKEY CHARACTERISTICS Narrow cone-shaped-caps with long pitssurrounded by black ridges. Hollow stalk.HABITATGrows on the ground under hardwoods;especially white ash, tulip trees, cherry, aspen,and sometimes pine trees.LOOK-ALIKESMorchella septentrionalesTIMING Early April to mid-May21
Smooth Thimble CapVerpa conicaPOISONOUSSAPROBE/DECOMPOSERUNKNOWN ECOLOGYKEY CHARACTERISTICS Long white stalk with a yellow to red-brownbell-shaped cap, attached at the top of thestalk and hangs free from the stalk. The stalkis not hollow, having a cotton-like pith.HABITATGrows on the ground in open wooded areas,edges of dense hardwoods, old orchards, andsometimes in lawns or pastures.LOOK-ALIKESMorchella punctipes (page 19)and Morchella populiphilaTIMING Mid-April to end of May22
Wrinkled Thimble CapVerpa bohemicaPOISONOUSSAPROBE/DECOMPOSERUNKNOWN ECOLOGYKEY CHARACTERISTICS Wrinkled bell-shaped cap which hangscompletely free of the stalk. The stalk isnot hollow, having a cotton-like pith.HABITATGrows on the ground under hardwoodsand conifers.LOOK-ALIKESMorchella punctipes (page 19)and Morchella populiphilaTIMING April to May23
Beefsteak False MorelGyromitra brunneaPOISONOUSSAPROBE/DECOMPOSERUNKNOWN ECOLOGYKEY CHARACTERISTICS Reddish-brown to tan saddle shaped cap.Saddle shape comes from the 2-5 lobes thatare raised and pinched together. The stalk isnot hollow.HABITATGrows on the ground under hardwoods,near stumps, and downed trees.LOOK-ALIKESNoneTIMING April to May24
Carolina False MorelGyromitra carolinianaPOISONOUSSAPROBE/DECOMPOSERUNKNOWN ECOLOGYKEY CHARACTERISTICS Large, roundish, dark red-brown to browncap that is heavily wrinkled on top of a whitefurrowed stalk. Cap is never lobed, and stalkis not hollow.HABITATGrows on the ground under hardwoods nearrotting stumps and downed trees.LOOK-ALIKESNoneTIMING Mid-March to May25
White Elfin SaddleHelvella crispa groupTOXICITY UNKNOWNMUTUALIST/BENEFICIALKEY CHARACTERISTICS White to light brown cap, inturned margin whenyoung, turning down with age, margin free fromthe stalk. Underside of the cap is slightly frostedin appearance. Stalk is white, ridged or fluted.HABITATGrows on the ground in mixed woods orunder hardwoods.LOOK-ALIKESHelvella lacteaTIMING June to mid-October26
SaddleHelvella stevensiiTOXICITY UNKNOWNMUTUALIST/BENEFICIALKEY CHARACTERISTICS White to light brown, edges fold upward awayfrom the stalk when young and downward withmaturity. The stalk is smooth, hollow, white,and bald.HABITATGrows on the ground under hardwoods.LOOK-ALIKESHelvella elasticaTIMING June to September27
Cabbage Leaf HelvellaHelvella acetabulum groupTOXICITY UNKNOWNMUTUALIST/BENEFICIALKEY CHARACTERISTICS Deep cup-shaped brown cap with deep forkedribs extending from the base of the short stalkand part way up the cap, sometimes all the wayto the cap margin. Stalk white, indented areasbetween ribs forming pockets.HABITATGrows on the ground in deciduous woodlands.LOOK-ALIKESHelvella costata, H. costifera, and H. solitariaTIMING Mid-May to mid-August28
Devil’s UrnUrnula crateriumTOXICITY UNKNOWNSAPROBE/DECOMPOSERPARASITE/HARMFULKEY CHARACTERISTICS Urn-shaped when young becoming more gobletshaped with age. The black cup often has anuneven margin. Spores produced on the uppersurface of the cup.HABITATGrows on fallen oak branches.LOOK-ALIKESNoneTIMING March to mid-June29
Crimson Cup, Scarlet Elf CupSarcoscypha austriacaTOXICITY UNKNOWNSAPROBE/DECOMPOSERKEY CHARACTERISTICS The cup is concave, red on the inside and whiteon the outside.HABITATGrows from downed, partially buried branchesof deciduous trees, especially basswood.LOOK-ALIKESS. coccinea, S. dudleyi, and S. occidentalisTIMING Mid-March to May30
Palomino Cup, Recurved CupPeziza variaTOXICITY UNKNOWNSAPROBE/DECOMPOSERKEY CHARACTERISTICS Large, shallow, tan to light brown cups that arewrinkled toward the center. The undersurfaceis lighter brown to white and has a slightlyfuzzy texture.HABITATGrows on rotten logs, wood chips, or on theground with large amounts of wood chips orrotting wood.LOOK-ALIKESPeziza domicilianaTIMING June to September31
Tippler’s Bane, Common Ink CapCoprinopsis atramentariaKnown to becomepoisonouswhen consumedwith alcohol.CHOICE OR EDIBLESAPROBE/DECOMPOSERPOISONOUSKEY CHARACTERISTICS Cap is conical to expanded, silky gray to brown,and finely scaled. In age the gills deliquesce,forming an inky black mass from the margintowards the center. Stalk is white.HABITATGrows in crowded clusters on decaying woodand on dead roots.LOOK-ALIKESOther coprinoid mushroomsTIMING June to mid-November32
Inky Caps, Mica CapsCoprinellus micaceusKnown to becomepoisonouswhen consumedwith alcohol.CHOICE OR EDIBLESAPROBE/DECOMPOSERPOISONOUSKEY CHARACTERISTICS Amber to honey brown cap covered with fineflakes that look like mica chips, which washoff with rain. As spores mature from the margintoward the center, the gills self-digest, ultimatelyturning into a black inky mass.HABITATGrows in crowded clusters on or near treestumps or where tree roots have started todecay underground in lawns.LOOK-ALIKESOther coprinoid mushroomsTIMING May to October33
Shaggy ManeCoprinus comatusKnown to becomepoisonouswhen consumedwith alcohol.CHOICE OR EDIBLESAPROBE/DECOMPOSERPOISONOUSKEY CHARACTERISTICS Cap-cylindrical to barrel-shaped, with surfacecovered with shaggy tan to brown scales. Gillsliquify and turn the cap inky black with age.HABITATGrows alone or in groups on the groundalong roadsides, grassy areas, hard packedsoils, wood chips, and near compost piles.LOOK-ALIKESCoprinus quadrifidus and Coprinopsis variegataTIMING Mid-June to October34
Oyster Mushroom, Pearl Oyster MushroomPleurotus ostreatusCHOICE OR EDIBLESAPROBE/DECOMPOSERPARASITE/HARMFULKEY CHARACTERISTICS Short-stalked to sessile fan or oyster shellshaped caps with gills that extend down the stalk.HABITATGrows in overlapping clusters on living treesor downed logs, especially hardwoods.LOOK-ALIKESPleurotus pulmonarius, Pleurotus populinusTIMING Mid-May to October35
Golden Oyster MushroomPleurotus citrinopileatusCHOICE OR EDIBLESAPROBE/DECOMPOSERPARASITE/HARMFULKEY CHARACTERISTICS Golden brown to bright yellow caps withstems that are white and usually bent. The gillsare close together and extend down the stalk.HABITATGrows in overlapping clusters ondecaying hardwoods.LOOK-ALIKESNoneTIMING May to September36
Elm Pleurotus, White Clamshell MushroomHypsizygus tessulatus (also known as H. marmoreus)CHOICE OR EDIBLESAPROBE/DECOMPOSERPARASITE/HARMFULKEY CHARACTERISTICS Thick white to tan cap centrally attachedto a tough stalk. Gills attached to stalk,not deccurrent.HABITATGrows singly or clustered in knots on livingor dead cottonwood or maple trees.LOOK-ALIKESHypsizygus ulmariusTIMING September to October37
ChanterellesCantharellus cibarius groupCHOICE OR EDIBLEMUTUALIST/BENEFICIALKEY CHARACTERISTICS Sturdy flat to funnel-shaped cap with thickgill-like ridges on the underside that extendpart way down the stalk. Species of this groupare shades of yellow to orange.HABITATArises singly or in clumps from the ground inopen hardwoods, sometimes in troops.LOOK-ALIKESOmphalotus illudens (page 69), Hygrophoropsisaurantiaca, and species of orange oryellow CraterellusTIMING Mid-June to August38
Scotch Bonnet, Fairy Ring MushroomMarasmius oreadesCHOICE OR EDIBLESAPROBE/DECOMPOSERKEY CHARACTERISTICS Broadly expanded and flattened cap withwidely spaced white gills attached to stalk,white spores.HABITATGrows in lawns and other grassy areas,numerous, often forming fairy rings.LOOK-ALIKESOther little to medium-sized brown mushroomsin lawns such as Clitocybe, Gymnopus,and PanaeolusTIMING May to mid-October39
Giant PuffballCalvatia giganteaWhite and firmflesh is consideredchoice edible,other stages maynot be edible.CHOICE OR EDIBLENOT EDIBLESAPROBE/DECOMPOSERKEY CHARACTERISTICS Very large, white, round mushroom with nostem. Thin outer covering breaks away intolarge irregular pieces.HABITATGrows on the ground in meadows andwooded areas.LOOK-ALIKESOther Calvatia speciesTIMING Mid-June to mid-November40
PuffballsLycoperdon speciesWhite and firmflesh is consideredchoice edible,other stages maynot be edible.CHOICE OR EDIBLENOT EDIBLESAPROBE/DECOMPOSERKEY CHARACTERISTICS Round to pear-shaped, with or without stalk, mostspecies white to yellow-brown. Thin outer coveringremains intact except for a hole in the top atmaturity. Small, 1-3 inches. Mature spore mass isolive green to brown, never purple black.HABITATGrows on the ground or on downed logs or stumpsin wooded or grassy areas.LOOK-ALIKESScleroderma species and young AmanitaTIMING Mid-June to mid-November41
Hard Puffballs, EarthballsScleroderma speciesPOISONOUSMUTUALIST/BENEFICIALKEY CHARACTERISTICS Round to elliptical, yellow-brown to brown,some species with markings or scales overthe thick (in most species) outer rind. Purpleblack inside.HABITATGrows on the ground in forests or inwooded lawns.LOOK-ALIKESLycoperdon species (page 41)TIMING June to October42
Bulbous Honey MushroomAmillaria gallicaCHOICE OR EDIBLESAPROBE/DECOMPOSERPARASITE/HARMFULKEY CHARACTERISTICS Mostly flat cap with tiny yellow brown scalesconcentrated near the center of the cap.Cobweb-like partial veil covers gills on youngmushrooms. Gills white, attached to stalk,spores white. Stem club shaped with a yellowring zone.HABITATGrows singly or in clusters at the base ofhardwoods, or on or near downed logs andoccasionally on conifers.LOOK-ALIKESOther Armillaria and Pholiota speciesTIMING September to October43
Honey MushroomArmillaria mellea (formerly Armillariella mellea)Some people reactbadly to consuminghoney mushrooms.CHOICE OR EDIBLEPARASITE/HARMFULKEY CHARACTERISTICS Honey-colored cap with small darker-coloredscales. When moist, the cap can be sticky.Partial veil covers gills when young, gills white,attached to stalk, spores white. Stalk with ring,whitish, sometimes with yellowish areas.HABITATGrows in clusters from common base, nearthe base of trees or stumps or on downed logs.Frequently on oak.LOOK-ALIKESOther Armillaria and Pholiota speciesTIMING Mid-June to November44
Sulphur Shelf, Chicken of the WoodsLaetiporus sulphureusCHOICE OR EDIBLESAPROBE/DECOMPOSERPARASITE/HARMFULKEY CHARACTERISTICS Upper surface has various shades of brightsulfur yellow to orange. Undersurface isyellow and composed of tubes with poresof gills.HABITATGrows in overlapping clusters on living trees,downed logs, and stumps of oak, maple, willow,chestnut, and other hardwoods.LOOK-ALIKESOmphalotus illudensTIMING Mid-June to mid-October45
Velvet Stem, Winter MushroomFlammulina velutipes (formerly known as Collybia velutipes)CHOICE OR EDIBLESAPROBE/DECOMPOSERKEY CHARACTERISTICS Yellow to red-brown caps are sticky or slimyon upper surface. Stalks covered with densevelvety blackish brown hairs. Gills whitish,attached to stalk, spores white.HABITATGrows in crowded, overlapping clusters ondecaying logs and stumps or on living trees.LOOK-ALIKESFlammulina populicolaTIMING March to November46
King BoleteBoletus edulis groupCHOICE OR EDIBLEMUTUALIST/BENEFICIALKEY CHARACTERISTICS Large, sturdy fruiting bodies, with cream-brownto reddish fleshy brown caps. Undersurface iswhite becoming pale yellow, with tubes andpores rather than gills, olive brown spores. Stalkis club-shaped, white, and upper part often hasraised reticulate pattern.HABITATGrows singly to scattered, on the groundunder oak.LOOK-ALIKESTylopilus felleusTIMING Mid-July to September47
Bitter BoleteTylopilus felleus groupNOT EDIBLEMUTUALIST/BENEFICIALKEY CHARACTERISTICS Fleshy pink-brown to tan cap, with whiteundersurface becoming pinkish with maturity,composed of tubes and pores rather than gills.The stem features a net-like pattern. The tasteis very bitter.HABITATGrows singly or scattered on the groundunder hardwoods.LOOK-ALIKESBoletus edulis groupTIMING Mid-July to September48
Hedgehog Mushroom, Sweet Tooth MushroomHydnum repandum (formerly known as Dentinum repandum,Gomphaceae, HydnaceaeCHOICE OR EDIBLEMUTUALIST/BENEFICIALKEY CHARACTERISTICS Light pinkish-brown to yellow brown cap withlower surface covered in white conical spinesinstead of gills or pores. The spines extend partway down the stalk.HABITATGrows on the ground underneath hardwoods,scattered.LOOK-ALIKESSarcodon imbricatusTIMING July to October49
Bear’s Head Tooth FungusHericium americanumCHOICE OR EDIBLESAPROBE/DECOMPOSERPARASITE/HARMFULKEY CHARACTERISTICS White branched fungus with long spines thathang down from the branches of the fungus.HABITATGrows on stumps and dead hardwoodlogs. Can also be found growing in woundsof hardwoods.LOOK-ALIKESOther species of HericiumTIMING August to October50
Chicken of the Woods, Hen of the Woods,Sheepshead, MaitakeGrifola frondosaCHOICE OR EDIBLEPARASITE/HARMFULKEY CHARACTERISTICS Rosette of numerous small fan-shaped greycaps. The tightly packed caps are attachedby branches leading to a central stem.Undersurface is white and composed of tubesand pores, not gills.HABITATGrows at base or stumps of oak trees.LOOK-ALIKESMeripilus sumstinei (page 53)TIMING August to October51
Lobster MushroomHypomyces lactifluorumThe risk associatedwith eating thisvariety comesfrom not knowingthe identity of theparasitized species.TOXICITY UNKNOWNPARASITE/HARMFULKEY CHARACTERISTICS Ridges instead of gills, bright orange-red, malformedcap and stalk. This fungus is a mix of a host mushroomthat is parasitized by another fungus (Hypomyces). Thisparasitism leads to malformation of the host mushroom.The host, when identified, has been Russula or Lactariusspecies.HABITATGrows on the ground, scattered, in deciduous woods,especially forests containing oaks and poplars.LOOK-ALIKESNoneTIMING Mid-July to mid-October52
Giant Polypore or Black-staining PolyporeMeripilus sumstineiChoice/edible whenyoung and fleshy, butbecomes tough andunpleasant whenolder.CHOICE OR EDIBLESAPROBE/DECOMPOSERPARASITE/HARMFULKEY CHARACTERISTICS Fan-shaped and white when young then tan tobrown when older. Multiple caps grow branchlike from a single stem forming a rosette. Fleshdiscolors black, particularly along cap margin.Under
This guide has three sections: 1. Mushroom fruiting calendar 2. Mushroom Profiles 3. References and resources 1. Mushroom calendar: when to look? The calendar on pages 14-17 shows the months when a mushroom species has been recorded in Iowa and other parts of the upper Midwest. The dates of the actual appearance of any one species
The first Agrodok on ‘Small-scale mushroom cultivation’, Agrodok no. 40, describes the technique of mushroom cultivation on substrates that only need heat treatment. Certain mushroom species however, like the Rice Straw Mushroom (Volvariella spp.) and the Button Mushroom (Agaricus spp.) c
ORGANIC MUSHROOM CULTIVATION MANUAL 3 What makes up a Mushroom 1. Cap: the top part of the mushroom that grows upward.When fully grown, mushroom caps will spread out like an umbrella, e.g. the Straw Mushroom, Ch
07. Sample Menu Recipes Salads 08. Anti Pasta Salad 09. Asian Spinach Salad 11. Italian Mushroom Salad 12. Peppy Pasta Salad 14. Shaved Mushroom Salad Entrees 15. Mushroom and Avocado Quesadilla 16. Veggie Flatbread 18. Broccoli Mushroom Cheddar Hand Pie 19. Mushroom Omelette 21. Veggie Qu
equipment to produce mushroom spawn for rural development projects. In the long run, the ARC's lab space can be used to produce low-cost mushroom spawn for mushroom cultivation projects. The following are short protocols for the production of nutritive agar, mushroom spawn, and mushroom-growing substrate. A. Agar medium for oyster mushrooms
depending on different mushroom crops and different mushroom growers, but the basic concepts and methods of mushroom production remain constant. Although a written description of mushroom growing may seem simple, the process of preparing a composted substrate and its pasteurizat
The domestic mushroom industry cultivates a range of edible mushrooms for human consumption, including Agaricus bisporus (button, cup, flat and brown mushroom) as well as exotic mushroom varieties including shiimeji and oyster. 1 Australian Mushroom Growers Association (AMGA) 2 Australian
4. Mushroom spawn, commonly referred to as mushroom "spore," is planted and cared for in such a way as to achieve maximum production. (Note: Mushroom growers in Thailand rarely complete steps 1, 2 and 3 as the PDA, mother spore and spawn of the commonly grown mushroom varieties
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