Home > Smooth chanterelle

Smooth chanterelle

Cantharellus lateritius

A species of Chanterelles

The smooth chanterelle is an orange mushroom that is said to give off an apricot-like aroma. It looks very similar to the poisonous jack-o'-lantern mushroom. This mushroom grows in association with tree roots - especially those of oaks - and forms a symbiotic relationship with the tree.

Cap Diameter:

2 - 8 cm

Odor:

Sweet, fruity, and strong, similar to apricots.

General Info About Smooth chanterelle

Instantly identify mushrooms with a snap

Snap a photo for instant mushroom ID and risk assessment, gaining quick insights on edible guidelines, toxicity, medical value, habitat, culture, and foraging techniques, etc.

Download the App for Free

Attributes of Smooth chanterelle

Cap Diameter

2 - 8 cm

Height

3 - 10 cm

Cap

Cap 2.5 - 8 cm across; planoconvex, flat, shallowly vase-shaped; yellow; bald; with an incurved, wavy, irregular margin; yellowish to orangish brown when bruised

Cap Shape

Convex, Flat, Depressed

Cap Surfaces

Smooth

Gills

Very shallow, vein-like; pale yellow

Stem

Stem 3 - 6 cm long, 1 - 3 cm thick; tapering to the base; colored like the cap; bald; yellowish to orangish brown when bruised

Stem Shapes

Tapering

Stem Surfaces

Smooth

Flesh

White, unchanging when sliced

Ring

Ringless

Spore Print Color

Pale pinkish yellow

Odor

Sweet, fruity, and strong, similar to apricots.

Body Color

Yellow

Orange

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 Smooth chanterelle by these plants:

Oaks, Pines, Populus

Occurence Habitats

Deciduous Woodland

Species Status

Least Concern

Endangered Species

How to Identify Smooth chanterelle

Fruiting Body Cap Flesh

AI mushroom expert in your pocket

Habitat of Smooth chanterelle

The smooth chanterelle is a woodland mushroom associated with deciduous trees, mostly oaks. This symbiotic mushroom will be found on the forest floor beneath its host tree, with whom it exchanges vital nutrients. It prefers damp places.

Uses of Smooth chanterelle

Smooth chanterelle is a prized edible mushroom, cherished for its culinary versatility. It's popular among foragers and gourmet chefs, especially when it's seasonally available. While smooth chanterelle can be found by enthusiasts during its growth season, caution is advised to ensure correct identification due to look-alikes. Its collection value lies in its flavor enhancement in dishes, though it should be consumed after proper cooking to mitigate any potential risks associated with wild mushrooms.

Scientific Classification of Smooth chanterelle

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Cantharellales

Family

Chanterelle

Genus

Chanterelles

Toxicity and Edibility of Smooth chanterelle

Mastering Mushroom Toxicity and Edibility

Unlock the Secrets of Mushroom Varieties, Edibility, Toxicity, and Safety Tips!

Download the App for Free

Edibility of Smooth chanterelle

The smooth chanterelle is a solid edible, but it's not as prized as several of its more flavorful chanterelle cousins. It boasts an apricot-like aroma but not a particularly strong taste. Like most other chanterelles, smooth chanterelles tend to be harvested from late summer into early fall. They are most popularly incorporated into pasta dishes, being sauteed in butter or oil first.

Similar Species to Smooth chanterelle

Unlocking the Secrets of Identifying Many Types of Mushroom

Master the Art of Distinguishing Mushroom Varieties with Expert Tips.

Download the App for Free

Jack-o'lantern mushroom

Similar Species

Smooth chanterelle

How to Differentiate Between Jack-o'lantern mushroom and Smooth chanterelle?

Smooth chanterelle: Does not exhibit bioluminescence.

Jack-o'lantern mushroom: Emits a soft, greenish glow in the dark.

Smooth chanterelle: Features false gills or ridges on the underside of the cap.

Jack-o'lantern mushroom: Has true, blade-like gills.

Smooth chanterelle: Usually solitary or in small groups on the ground in woods.

Jack-o'lantern mushroom: Often in dense clusters on wood.

Tips for Finding Smooth chanterelle

Your Ultimate Guide to Understanding Mushrooms

Explore the Ins and Outs of Mushroom Hunting: Timing, Optimal Soil Conditions, and More Tips!

Download the App for Free

When is the Best Time to Find Smooth chanterelle

Search for smooth chanterelle in late summer to early fall when the ground is damp. Ideal conditions follow a few rainy days, which help smooth chanterelle to emerge.

What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Smooth chanterelle

Moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter.

What are Some Tips for Finding Smooth chanterelle

Look under and around oaks and hickories, as smooth chanterelle often associates with these trees.
Search for smooth chanterelle where the ground is moist and the soil contains ample organic material.
Check for single or multiple smooth chanterelle growing in proximity to form groupings or loose clusters.
Scan the forest floor, rather than digging, to avoid disturbing the habitat and ensure future growth.

How to Clean and Preserve Smooth chanterelle

Your Comprehensive Mushroom Preservation Guide

Explore efficient methods for cleaning and preserving mushrooms to ensure their freshness and quality.

Download the App for Free

How to Clean Smooth chanterelle

To clean smooth chanterelle, first remove any dirt without soaking them, as they absorb water which affects texture and flavor. Use a damp paper towel to brush off debris. If necessary, quickly rinse under running water, then dry thoroughly to prevent a rubbery texture.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Smooth chanterelle

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying

Drying Duration

6 - 12 months

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

Dehydrator drying: Ensures even drying and minimizes spoilage risk.

Oven drying: Set at lowest temperature, keeping door ajar for air circulation.

Air drying: Hang in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of Smooth chanterelle

Freezing Methods

Blanching Before Freezing

Freezing Duration

3 - 12 months

Blanching before freezing: Boil briefly, then submerge in icy water to retain texture.

Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Smooth chanterelle

Refrigerating Methods

Paper Bag Storage, Perforated Plastic Bag Storage, Cloth Wrapping

Temperature

0 - 3 ℃

Refrigerating Humidity

90 - 95 %

Refrigerating Duration

7 - 10 days

Paper Bag Storage: Place mushrooms in a paper bag allowing airflow, prevents moisture buildup reducing spoilage.

Perforated Plastic Bag Storage: Store in a perforated plastic bag to maintain a balanced moisture level, preventing them from drying out or becoming soggy.

Cloth Wrapping: Place mushrooms in a container with a lightly damp cloth over them to maintain humidity without direct moisture contact.