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Photo By Eric Steinert

Copper spike

Chroogomphus rutilus

A species of Pine-spikes, Also known as Brown slimecap

A European fungus, the copper spike is is visually almost indistinguishable from its North American counterpart - Chroogomphus ochraceus, although molecular studies have shown that these two are different species. Its cap becomes slimy when wet, hence the common name. The cap color is highly variable and it can range from yellowish, to orange, purplish, reddish, and brown.

Cap Diameter:

4 - 16 cm

Odor:

Subtle, typical mushroom smell, generally not distinctive.

General Info About Copper spike

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Attributes of Copper spike

Cap Diameter

4 - 16 cm

Height

7 - 15 cm

Cap

Cap 5 - 15 cm across; convex to umbonate; ocher-buff to wine-red or purple-brown; surface smooth

Cap Shape

Convex, Flat, Central Bump

Cap Surfaces

Smooth, Slimy or slightly sticky

Gills

Deeply decurrent; widely spaced; orange-gray to purple-gray

Stem

Stem 6 - 12 cm long, 5 - 12 mm thick; purple-brown, orange, yellow; surface smooth, with faint zigzag markings

Stem Shapes

Cylindrical

Stem Surfaces

Smooth

Flesh

Firm; mushy, fibrous; orange-ochre, salmon-pink, wine-red, yellow, chrome-yellow

Ring

At the apex of stem; reddish, vinaceous

Ring

With Ring

Spore Print Color

Dark smoky-olive to blackish gray

Odor

Subtle, typical mushroom smell, generally not distinctive.

Body Color

Brown

Yellow

Red

Bronze

Purple

Flesh Bruises

Discolor to pink or red

Growth Form

Gregarious

Nutrient Gathering

Mycorrhizal

Substrate

On soil

You can find Copper spike by these plants:

Pines, Spruces, Scots pine

Occurence Habitats

Coniferous Woodland, Meadows

Species Status

Fairly frequent

Endangered Species

How to Identify Copper spike

Fruiting Body Cap Gills

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Habitat of Copper spike

The copper spike is a woodland mushroom that is primarily associated with two-needle pines, although sometimes occurs with spruce. It grows in the grass and needle litter beneath pines, but always near the roots of trees, where it exists in a symbiotic relationship in which the two species feed each other essential nutrients.

Distribution Area of Copper spike

Europe,northern Asia

Uses of Copper spike

Copper spike is an edible mushroom species with practical culinary uses. Its appeal lies in its distinct flavor, making it a valued addition to various dishes, particularly in local cuisines where it is found. While not the most popular, copper spike has seasonal availability and is sometimes foraged by mushroom enthusiasts. As with all wild mushrooms, caution is advised; proper identification and preparation are essential to ensure safety when consuming copper spike.

Scientific Classification of Copper spike

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Boletes and allies

Family

Gomphidiaceae

Genus

Pine-spikes

Toxicity and Edibility of Copper spike

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Edibility of Copper spike

The copper spike, though edible, is almost never gathered by mushroom hunters. Its taste is bland, and its texture is not particularly noteworthy either.

Similar Species to Copper spike

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Brown roll-rim

Similar Species

Copper spike

How to Differentiate Between Brown roll-rim and Copper spike?

Copper spike: Displays a conical to bell-shaped cap with a smooth texture.

Brown roll-rim: Cap is typically flat and centrally depressed, with a velvety or finely fibrous surface.

Tips for Finding Copper spike

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When is the Best Time to Find Copper spike

Search for copper spike in late summer to fall when the weather begins to cool. Pay attention after rain showers, as increased moisture encourages growth. Temperatures between 50°F (10°C) and 75°F (24°C) are typically most favorable.

What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Copper spike

Moist, well-drained, acidic to neutral.

What are Some Tips for Finding Copper spike

Search the ground near pine trees, as copper spike often grow in these areas.
Look for copper spike in open grassy areas of woodlands, which provide the necessary space and light this species prefers.
Inspect the base of pine trees and the surrounding soil, as copper spike form symbiotic relationships with these trees.
Focus your search in well-shaded areas rather than direct sunlight to locate copper spike.
Examine clearings within coniferous forests, which might offer optimal conditions for copper spike to thrive.

How to Clean and Preserve Copper spike

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How to Clean Copper spike

To clean copper spike, briefly toss in a large bowl of water so dirt settles, then pat dry. Avoid soaking; think shower, not bath. This method ensures gentle handling, preserving the mushroom's integrity.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Copper spike

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying

Drying Duration

12 - 24 months

Store in a cool, dark place with low humidity and in an airtight container to prevent moisture reabsorption.

Dehydrator drying: Consistent air circulation and low heat ensure thorough drying while maintaining quality.

Oven drying: Reliable for faster moisture removal, suitable for a controlled environment with low moisture content.

Air drying: Natural process, adequate for less humid climates or with the aid of indoor airflow enhancement.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of Copper spike

Freezing Methods

Blanching Before Freezing

Freezing Duration

10 - 12 months

Blanching before freezing: Briefly heat to deactivate enzymes, then cool and freeze promptly.

Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Copper spike

Refrigerating Methods

Paper Bag Storage, Perforated Plastic Bag Storage, Cloth Wrapping

Temperature

2 - 4 ℃

Refrigerating Humidity

85 - 95 %

Refrigerating Duration

5 - 7 days

Paper Bag Storage: Place mushrooms in a paper bag to allow air circulation while absorbing excess moisture.

Perforated Plastic Bag Storage: Use a plastic bag with small holes to keep mushrooms dry yet provide some air exchange.

Cloth Wrapping: Wrap mushrooms in a damp cloth to maintain humidity without allowing the mushrooms to become too wet.

Common Questions People Also Ask

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Where does copper spike grow?