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Flat-top coral

Clavariadelphus truncatus

A species of Clavariadelphus, Also known as Truncated club coral

The flat-top coral (Clavariadelphus truncatus) forms a distinctive little mushroom. Its stalk is barely differentiated from the cap in many specimens, leading to an overall tapered shape that has been compared to that of a club or bat. It is distantly related to the chantarelles and shares their golden color.

Cap Diameter:

3 - 6 cm

Odor:

Mildly earthy with a mold-like scent.

General Info About Flat-top coral

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Attributes of Flat-top coral

Cap Diameter

3 - 6 cm

Height

7 - 10 cm

Cap

3 - 6 cm wide; apex typically flattened or depressed at the center; shading to yellowish-orange at the apex

Stem

4-3 x 3-6 cm; club-shaped; pinkish-brown to orange-brown and lighter towards the base

Flesh

Thin, hollow at the top; firm when young, soft at maturity; white; darkening when injured

Ring

Ringless

Spore Print Color

Pale yellow to ochre

Odor

Mildly earthy with a mold-like scent.

Body Color

Yellow

Orange

Flesh Bruises

Discolor to pink or red

Growth Form

Scattered, Gregarious

Nutrient Gathering

Saprophytic

Substrate

On soil, Leaf or Needle Litter, Mosses

Occurence Habitats

Coniferous Woodland

Species Status

Common, widely distributed

Endangered Species

How to Identify Flat-top coral

Fruiting Body Habit & Habitat

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Habitat of Flat-top coral

The flat-top coral can be found in coniferous forests. Its fruitbodies grow on the ground, in soil, duff, or moss, above the roots of a host tree. Underground, the fungus is living in symbiotic association with the tree, each providing the other with essential nutrients.

Hunting Values of Flat-top coral

While some guides list this mushroom as edible, few people collect it and caution is advised.

Uses of Flat-top coral

Flat-top coral is recognized as a mushroom with questionable edibility, implying that while it may be consumed by some, its safety remains uncertain. It's not widely popular in culinary circles due to potential risks. Collectors should exercise caution and prioritize identification accuracy before considering consumption. The lack of clear consensus on its edibility suggests that flat-top coral is best admired for its ecological role rather than as a food source.

Scientific Classification of Flat-top coral

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Gomphales

Family

Gomphoid-phalloid clade

Genus

Clavariadelphus

Toxicity and Edibility of Flat-top coral

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Edibility of Flat-top coral

Flat-top coral is reported to be edible and delicious. The older mushrooms are said to be particularly sweet, and a bit softer.

Similar Species to Flat-top coral

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Tips for Finding Flat-top coral

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When is the Best Time to Find Flat-top coral

Search for flat-top coral in late summer to fall, ideally after rainfall. Cooler temperatures that range from 50-60°F (10-15°C) during the day are suggestive of the best foraging timeframe.

What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Flat-top coral

Rich, moist, well-decomposed organic material.

What are Some Tips for Finding Flat-top coral

Look for flat-top coral where the forest floor is covered with a thick layer of decomposed plant matter.
Target areas beneath conifer trees, as these are typical habitats for flat-top coral.
Gently clear the duff without disturbing the soil to reveal any hidden flat-top coral.
Check in environments that are consistently moist, as flat-top coral prefers such conditions.
Since flat-top coral can grow in groups, finding one may indicate the presence of more nearby.

How to Clean and Preserve Flat-top coral

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How to Clean Flat-top coral

Flat-top coral can be cleaned by first cutting them above the dirt line when harvesting. To remove bugs and debris, give flat-top coral a few solid smacks against a nearby surface. Trim any excessively dirty or aged parts. To clean flat-top coral with a damp towel to clean individual nooks, checking carefully for bugs, dirt, and other foreign matter .

Tips on Dry Preservation of Flat-top coral

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying

Drying Duration

6 - 12 months

Store in a cool, dark place with low humidity and good air circulation.

Dehydrator drying: Ensures even drying, preserving texture and minimizing spoilage.

Oven drying: Regulated low heat can slowly reduce moisture without cooking.

Air drying: Natural process, ideal in low-humidity environments.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of Flat-top coral

Freezing Methods

Blanching Before Freezing