The mushrooms of the clouded funnel grow in rings on the forest floor across Europe and North America. In Britain and Ireland these have been called “fairy rings.” clouded funnels were once said to be edible, but modern research has found them to be mildly toxic and best avoided, as they cause extreme stomach upset in some people.
Cap Diameter:
5 - 30 cm
Odor:
Strongly foul or slightly sweetish, mushroomy.
In This Article
Attributes
Toxicity and Edibility
Similar Species
Tips for Finding
Clean and Preserve
Common Questions
General Info About Clouded funnel
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Attributes of Clouded funnel
Cap Diameter
5 - 30 cm
Height
6 - 15 cm
Cap
Cap 4 - 30 cm across; convex, shallowly funnel-shaped; brownish gray; surface smooth
Cap Shape
Convex, Flat, Depressed
Cap Surfaces
Fibrillose-scaly
Gills
Adnate, decurrent; close, crowded; whitish
Gill Attachment
Decurrent
Stem
Stem 4 - 9 cm long, 1.5 - 3 cm thick; enlarged base; whitish; finely fibrillose; turns brownish when bruised
Stem Shapes
Club Shaped
Stem Surfaces
Fibrillose
Stem Cross Sections
Hollow or cottony hollow
Flesh
Thick; white; unchanging when sliced
Ring
Ringless
Spore Print Color
White to pale yellowish
Odor
Strongly foul or slightly sweetish, mushroomy.
Body Color
Brown
Gray
White
Flesh Bruises
The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.
Clouded funnel mushrooms mainly grow in coniferous forests but can occasionally be found in deciduous forests or below hedges and shrubberies. They feed on detritus like decomposing plant matter and dung.
Distribution Area of Clouded funnel
North America,Europe,Central America,northern Asia,New zealand
Hunting Values of Clouded funnel
The edibility is debated; it was once edible but recently some people have experienced severe discomfort after consumption.
Uses of Clouded funnel
Clouded funnel is a mushroom with questionable edibility, often found during autumn. While some foragers collect it, its consumption requires caution due to potential gastrointestinal distress. Its popularity is limited by these risks, and it's not widely regarded as a choice edible. Consumers should be aware of the safety concerns and are advised to seek expert guidance before considering clouded funnel for culinary use.
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Is Clouded funnel Toxic?
Although the clouded funnel was once considered edible, now it's known that it can cause moderate, sometimes alarming gastric problems in some people, which may not begin until 4 hours after consumption. Characterized by an unpleasant odor and often said to have a very poor taste, we advise this one be avoided.
Similar Species to Clouded funnel
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Master the Art of Distinguishing Mushroom Varieties with Expert Tips.
How to Differentiate Between Large white Leucopaxallus and Clouded funnel?
Clouded funnel: Has an anise-like or fruity odor, especially when young.
Large white Leucopaxallus: Typically lacks a distinctive smell.
Tips for Finding Clouded funnel
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When is the Best Time to Find Clouded funnel
Search for clouded funnel during late autumn when the weather is cool and moist. Ideal temperatures range between 8-15°C (46-59°F). Check after periods of rain, as they favor clouded funnel's growth.
What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Clouded funnel
Prefers moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter.
What are Some Tips for Finding Clouded funnel
Search beneath coniferous and deciduous trees, particularly where forest litter accumulates.
Look for ring patterns in grasslands or woodlands, as clouded funnel is known to grow in arcs or circles.
Check in hedgerows and less dense wooded areas, as clouded funnel can also thrive there.
Inspect areas with rich, organic material on the forest floor, as these conditions are favorable for clouded funnel.
Scan for groups or clusters of clouded funnel rather than solitary specimens, since they tend to grow gregariously.
How to Clean and Preserve Clouded funnel
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How to Clean Clouded funnel
Gently clean clouded funnel using a damp cloth; do not wash. Inspect carefully for insects, peel or scrape the cap, gills, and stem where possible. If peeling is difficult, a soft brush or scraper may be used. Handle with care to maintain integrity.
Tips on Dry Preservation of Clouded funnel
Drying Methods
Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying
Drying Duration
12 - 18 months
Store in airtight containers, cool, dark place with low humidity. Ensure proper ventilation.
Dehydrator drying: Removes moisture efficiently, maintaining texture and quality.