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Blusher

Amanita novinupta

A species of Amanita mushrooms

Fruitbodies of the blusher (Amanita novinupta) continually evolve in color as they grow. Starting life as slender-stalked, pure white mushrooms, they darken to shades of tan and sometimes even maroon. This gradual discoloration is why they are commonly called "blushers." Although they are non-toxic, they can easily be confused with their toxic Amanita cousins, so it is best not to touch.

Cap Diameter:

4 - 16 cm

Odor:

Mild, indistinct mushroom scent.

General Info About Blusher

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Attributes of Blusher

Cap Diameter

4 - 16 cm

Height

6 - 15 cm

Cap

Cap 3 - 15 cm across; round, flat; white, pinkish; margin not lined; display pale pinkish when bruised

Cap Shape

Convex, Flat

Cap Surfaces

Warted

Gills

Free; close, crowded; whitish; bruising pinkish

Gill Attachment

Free to Attached

Stem

Stem 2 - 15 cm long, 1 - 3 cm thick; slightly tapering to apex; white; smooth, or finely scaly; pinkish to reddish when bruised

Stem Shapes

Club Shaped

Stem Surfaces

Scaly

Flesh

White; pinkish to reddish on exposure

Ring

Skirtlike; white

Ring

With Ring

Spore Print Color

White

Odor

Mild, indistinct mushroom scent.

Body Color

Brown

Red

Gray

White

Pink

Flesh Bruises

The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.

Growth Form

Solitary, Scattered, Gregarious

Nutrient Gathering

Mycorrhizal

Substrate

On soil

You can find Blusher by these plants:

Common douglas-fir, Coast live oak

Occurence Habitats

Deciduous Woodland, Coniferous Woodland, Mixed Woodland

Species Status

Least Concern

Endangered Species

How to Identify Blusher

Fruiting Body Immature Fruiting Body Cap

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Habitat of Blusher

The blusher is found in forests under deciduous trees with which it has formed a symbiotic relationship, especially coast live oak (Quercus agrifolia). The two species feed each other essential nutrients. Fruitbodies are found on the ground, in the duff under the host tree.

Hunting Values of Blusher

Dangerous, as there are toxic species which are difficult to distinguish from it.

Uses of Blusher

Blusher is recognized as an edible mushroom, yet it comes with significant risks. Its consumption is only advised after proper identification and preparation, as confusion with toxic species could be perilous. This mushroom is not commonly found on dining tables due to these safety concerns. Enthusiasts who seek blusher must exercise extreme caution and possess expert knowledge, especially during its limited seasonal availability.

Scientific Classification of Blusher

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Gilled fungi

Family

Amanita

Genus

Amanita mushrooms

Similar Species to Blusher

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Cleft-footed amanita

Similar Species

Blusher

How to Differentiate Between Cleft-footed amanita and Blusher?

Blusher: Stem base lacks a well-defined bulb or volva.

Cleft-footed amanita: The stem base typically has a prominent bulbous structure.

Death angel

Similar Species

Blusher

How to Differentiate Between Death angel and Blusher?

Blusher: Volva is more fragmented or collar-like.

Death angel: Volva is sac-like and distinct.

Blusher: Typically has white, cottony patches or warts.

Death angel: Often lacks prominent white warts on the cap.

Volvate amanita

Similar Species

Blusher

How to Differentiate Between Volvate amanita and Blusher?

Blusher: Typically has a smoother, less distinct cap edge.

Volvate amanita: Possesses a striate (grooved) cap margin.

Blusher: Volva forms a loose, limbless cup around the base.

Volvate amanita: Volva often saccate, prominently bag-like.

Tips for Finding Blusher

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When is the Best Time to Find Blusher

The best time to find blusher is during late summer to early fall. Seek them after rain when the ground is moist, with temperatures ranging from 55°F to 75°F (13°C to 24°C).

What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Blusher

Prefers well-drained, moist, and nutrient-rich soils.

What are Some Tips for Finding Blusher

Look for blusher in mixed hardwood-conifer forests, paying special attention to areas around oak trees.
Search for blusher in habitats where the ground is moist and well-drained, which can indicate suitable soil conditions for their growth.
Scour the ground around the base of trees, as blusher can frequently be found growing alone or in small clusters in these locations.
Inspect areas with organic debris, such as fallen leaves and twigs, which blusher may favor.

How to Clean and Preserve Blusher

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How to Clean Blusher

To clean blusher, gently brush off any debris using a soft brush. For stubborn dirt, lightly dampen a cloth and wipe the surface. Handle with care to maintain physical integrity, avoiding any bruising or damage.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Blusher

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying

Drying Duration

6 - 12 months

Store in a dark, cool, dry place with airtight containers to prevent rehydration and spoilage.

Dehydrator drying: Preserves by removing moisture quickly, maintaining color and structure.

Oven drying: Controlled low heat can efficiently remove moisture without cooking.

Air drying: Natural airflow can desiccate when sliced thinly and spaced out.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of Blusher

Freezing Duration

10 - 12 months

Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Blusher

Refrigerating Methods

Paper Bag Storage, Cloth Wrapping

Temperature

2 - 4 ℃

Refrigerating Humidity

90 - 95 %

Refrigerating Duration

5 - 7 days

Paper Bag Storage: Store in paper bags to allow moisture evaporation while maintaining breathability.

Cloth Wrapping: Encase in a damp cloth to keep humidity around without soaking the mushrooms.

Common Questions People Also Ask

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More Mushrooms That Are Similar to Blusher

Blusher

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