Top 20 Edible Mushrooms Popular in Rancho Cordova
Nestled amid scenic landscapes with a climate conducive to fungal growth, Rancho Cordova is a treasure trove for both novice and seasoned mycologists. In this guide, we assemble the 20 most common edible mushrooms found in Rancho Cordova's rich and diverse habitats. Get to know each mushroom's distinct look, taste, growth conditions, and culinary potential as we journey through the exciting world of mycology in Rancho Cordova.
* Disclaimer: Content feedback CAN NOT be used as any basis for EATING ANY PLANTS. Some plants can be VERY POISONOUS, please purchase edible plants through regular channels.
Most Popular Edible Mushrooms
1. Big sheath mushroom
These large white mushrooms bloom all over cleared, harvested fields, as well as pastures and roadsides. The scientific species name comes from Greek words meaning “glue” (glioio) and “head” (cephalus), in reference to the sticky surface of this mushroom’s cap. The big sheath mushroom looks so similar to the poisonous Deathcap and Destroying Angel mushrooms that it should always be left alone.
2. Blewit
The blewit mushroom grows in fallen leaves in autumn and winter, sometimes appearing in ‘fairy ring’ circles. It can be used to make a green dye when chopped and boiled in an iron pot. The scientific name, Lepista nuda, derives from Latin words meaning “bare goblet,” a reference to the shape and texture of the mushroom.
3. Shaggy mane
The shaggy mane mushroom is commonly found in North American and European grasslands. Some peoples foraged for its young egg-shaped caps, but it has more recently been found to be a bioaccumulator of heavy metals, meaning it pulls toxic metals up from the soil where it grows. As a result, shaggy manes should not be eaten. The mushrooms usually appear in clusters or “fairy rings.”
4. Western amethyst laccaria
The western amethyst laccaria is a beautiful species that is a very close cousin of Laccaria amethysteo. Like Laccaria amethysteo, the western amethyst laccaria boasts a cap and stalk that are of lavender or purple. Unlike Laccaria amethysteo, Laccaria amethysteo-occidentalis' range spreads across western North America, and is associated with conifers, rather than hardwoods. The species is considered edible, but not choice.
5. Lion's Mane Mushroom
Lion's Mane Mushroom(Hericium erinaceus) is easily identifiable by its characteristic appearance, reminiscent of the majestic mane of a lion. It often sprouts along hardwoods, which may be living or dead. Scientists thus debate whether this species is truly parasitic or merely saprophytic in nature.
6. Coral tooth fungus
Coral tooth fungus (Hericium coralloides) is a species of coral mushroom most frequently sighted on dead or decaying hardwoods. Generally, younger specimens are white and become increasingly yellowish as they mature. Found around the world, the Māori refer to this species as pekepekekiore.
7. Toothed jelly fungus
This whimsically-named mushroom has a global distribution and a unique appearance. Toothed jelly fungus has a white, translucent - almost spectral - coloration and sports little downward pointing "teeth" on the underside of its cap. Although its toothed underside may scream "hedgehog mushroom", it is actually a member of a separate genus (Pseudohydnum, as opposed to Hydnum).
8. Honey fungus
The honey fungus is a parasitic fungus that grows on the roots of many woody and perennial plants, damaging and possibly killing its host. It spreads underground and is considered to be the most damaging fungal disease in gardens across the UK. The appearance of the mushrooms above-ground heralds a much more extensive infection below.
9. Oyster mushroom
Oyster mushrooms grow wild but are also cultivated for sale in supermarkets. They can even be cultivated at home. They will grow on coffee grounds and spent grain, and are occasionally even fashioned into an environmentally-friendly substitute for styrofoam. There are several toxic look-alike species, so it is best to buy these mushrooms at the store.
10. Giant sawgill
The impressively large caps of the giant sawgill (Neolentinus ponderosus) can spread up 30 cm across and encompass entire decaying stumps and logs. Unlike other mushrooms, the giant sawgill thrives in the hotter, drier months. Look for them near Ponderosa Pines.
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