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Shaggy mane

Coprinus comatus

A species of Ink cap, Also known as Shaggy ink cap

The shaggy mane mushroom is commonly found in North American and European grasslands. Some peoples foraged for its young egg-shaped caps, but it has more recently been found to be a bioaccumulator of heavy metals, meaning it pulls toxic metals up from the soil where it grows. As a result, shaggy manes should not be eaten. The mushrooms usually appear in clusters or “fairy rings.”

Cap Diameter:

2 - 6 cm

Odor:

Subtle, pleasant, non-specific mushroom scent.

General Info About Shaggy mane

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Attributes of Shaggy mane

Cap Diameter

2 - 6 cm

Height

10 - 35 cm

Cap

Cap 3 - 15 cm across; cylindrical to conical; buff to brownish, white; with densely shaggy-scaly

Cap Shape

Bell-shaped, Convex

Cap Surfaces

Fibrillose-scaly

Gills

Free; crowded; white, pink, black

Gill Attachment

Free to Attached

Stem

Stem 5 - 20 cm long, 1 - 2 cm thick; tapering to apex; white; surface smooth

Stem Shapes

Cylindrical

Stem Surfaces

Smooth

Stem Cross Sections

Hollow or cottony hollow

Flesh

Soft; white

Ring

Bottom of the stem; loose; white

Ring

With Ring

Spore Print Color

Black

Odor

Subtle, pleasant, non-specific mushroom scent.

Body Color

Brown

Black

White

Flesh Bruises

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

Growth Form

Solitary, Scattered, Gregarious

Nutrient Gathering

Saprophytic

Substrate

On soil

You can find Shaggy mane by these plants:

Spruces, Oaks

Occurence Habitats

Disturbed Lands, Meadows

Species Status

Least Concern

Endangered Species

How to Identify Shaggy mane

Fruiting Body Immature Fruiting Body Cap

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Habitat of Shaggy mane

Shaggy mane mushrooms can be found on lawns, among woodchips, or even in disturbed dirt or hard-packed ground. They feed on detritus like decomposing plant matter and dung.

Distribution Area of Shaggy mane

North America, Europe, North Africa, Central and South America, northern Asia, Australia, New Zealand

Hunting Values of Shaggy mane

Do not drink alcohol simultaneously, it might cause alcohol intolerance.

Uses of Shaggy mane

Shaggy mane is a sought-after edible species, prized for its unique flavor. Available mainly in the spring and fall, it garners popularity among foragers and chefs. Despite its culinary value, caution is advised as it may interact adversely with alcohol. Collectors should ensure proper identification and preparation to avoid potential risks associated with its consumption.

Scientific Classification of Shaggy mane

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Gilled fungi

Family

Agaricaceae

Genus

Ink cap

Toxicity and Edibility of Shaggy mane

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Is Shaggy mane Toxic?

Shaggy mane contains a compound called coprine which becomes moderately toxic when ingested in combination with alcohol, by interfering with the alcohol detoxification process. Symptoms of alcohol/coprine poisoning include flushing of the face and neck, rapid heartbeat, a metallic taste in the mouth, vomiting, diarrhea, and the perception of swelling in the face and hands.

Is Shaggy mane Toxic to Dogs?

All parts of shaggy mane contain a compound, coprine, that is only toxic when consumed in combination with alcohol. In the unlikely event that your dog ingests alcohol and this mushroom together then there is a moderate poisoning risk, but otherwise, there is no danger. Symptoms include high pulse rate, nausea, and vomiting.

Edibility of Shaggy mane

Shaggy mane is reported to be edible while young and completely white. It must be prepared soon after collection because the gills begin to blacken immediately, making this mushroom inedible. Be careful, as this mushroom looks similar to Common Ink Cap, which is poisonous, especially when paired with alcohol.

Similar Species to Shaggy mane

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Magpie inkcap

Similar Species

Shaggy mane

Confusing Aspects of Magpie inkcap and Shaggy mane?

Shaggy mane and Magpie inkcap both have white, shaggy caps and appear similar when young.

How to Differentiate Between Magpie inkcap and Shaggy mane?

Shaggy mane: Cap is white and shaggy or scaly in texture.

Magpie inkcap: Cap is glossy black with a smooth surface.

False parasol

Similar Species

Shaggy mane

Confusing Aspects of False parasol and Shaggy mane?

Shaggy mane and False parasol both have white, shaggy caps and appear similar when young.

How to Differentiate Between False parasol and Shaggy mane?

Shaggy mane: Features black, deliquescing gills as it matures.

False parasol: Retains white gills that eventually turn greenish.

Shaggy mane: Cap remains round or bell-shaped.

False parasol: Cap becomes broadly convex to flat with age.

Tips for Finding Shaggy mane

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When is the Best Time to Find Shaggy mane

Search for shaggy mane in late spring to early fall. These mushrooms thrive after rainfall, so damp weather with mild temperatures is prime foraging time.

What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Shaggy mane

Prefers nutrient-rich, moist, and recently disturbed soil.

What are Some Tips for Finding Shaggy mane

Inspect areas with recent soil disturbance, such as construction sites or newly landscaped gardens.
Walk along roadsides, footpaths, and playing fields where the soil is frequently compacted.
Search grassy areas after rainfall when the ground is moist.
Look for small groups or lines of shaggy mane in open woodland borders.

How to Clean and Preserve Shaggy mane

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How to Clean Shaggy mane

To clean shaggy mane, gently trim off any damaged sections. Lightly brush off dirt with a paper towel or soft brush, taking care to maintain the integrity of the cap, as shaggy mane can bruise easily. Avoid washing to preserve their delicate structure.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of Shaggy mane

Freezing Methods

Blanching Before Freezing

Freezing Duration

10 - 12 months

Blanching before freezing: Blanching helps inactivating enzymes, preserving texture and color.

Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Shaggy mane

Refrigerating Methods

Paper Bag Storage, Cloth Wrapping, Perforated Plastic Bag Storage, Original Packaging Storage

Temperature

1 - 4 ℃

Refrigerating Humidity

90 - 95 %

Refrigerating Duration

1 - 2 days

Paper Bag Storage: Store in paper bags to absorb excess moisture and allow for air circulation.

Cloth Wrapping: Wrap loosely in a clean, dry cloth to prevent moisture buildup and spoilage.

Perforated Plastic Bag Storage: Use bags with holes to balance humidity and prevent condensation, securing freshness.

Original Packaging Storage: Keep in original breathable containers, if supplied, to maintain their natural condition.

Common Questions People Also Ask

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Where do shaggy mane grow?

When do shaggy mane grow?

More Mushrooms That Are Similar to Shaggy mane

Scaly ink cap

Coprinopsis variegata

Magpie inkcap

Coprinopsis picacea

Shaggy parasol

Chlorophyllum rhacodes

Desert shaggy mane

Podaxis pistillaris