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Horn of plenty

Craterellus cornucopioides

A species of Craterellus, Also known as Black trumpet

The Craterellus cornucopioides is an edible and highly sought-after species of mushroom that is usually grouped with the chanterelles. It has a black, trumpet-like shape due to its highly upturned cap. Sometimes called the 'trumpet of the dead,' this is not a reference to danger, but rather an old European belief that these mushrooms spring up over the graves of the dead.

Cap Diameter:

5 - 10 cm

Odor:

Slightly sweet, not particularly distinct.

General Info About Horn of plenty

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Attributes of Horn of plenty

Cap Diameter

5 - 10 cm

Height

5 - 10 cm

Cap

Funnel- or trumpet-shaped; gray-brown to black; with a deeply incurved margin

Cap Shape

Depressed

Cap Surfaces

Visible lines or stripes

Stem

Cap-colored, hollow; smooth

Stem Shapes

Tapering

Stem Surfaces

Ribbed

Stem Cross Sections

Hollow or cottony hollow

Flesh

Thin; brittle; blackish

Ring

Fairy

Ring

Ringless

Spore Print Color

White

Odor

Slightly sweet, not particularly distinct.

Body Color

Black

Gray

Flesh Bruises

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

Growth Form

Scattered, Gregarious, Clustered

Nutrient Gathering

Mycorrhizal

Substrate

On soil, Leaf or Needle Litter, Mosses

You can find Horn of plenty by these plants:

Tanoak, European beech, Oaks

Occurence Habitats

Deciduous Woodland, Coniferous Woodland

Species Status

Generally common in Europe

Endangered Species

How to Identify Horn of plenty

Fruiting Body Inner Surface Stem

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Habitat of Horn of plenty

The horn of plenty is a woodland mushroom, mostly associated with beech, oak, manzanita, madrone (Arbutus menziesii), coast live oak (Quercus agrifolia), tanbark-oak (Notholithocarpus densiflorus), and occasionally conifers. It is always found 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 Horn of plenty

North America, Europe, Africa, Central America, northern Asia

Uses of Horn of plenty

Horn of plenty is a prized edible mushroom, coveted by gourmet chefs for its rich flavor and rarity. It's primarily used in culinary practices, often harvested in the wild during its autumnal fruiting season. Due to its unique taste, horn of plenty has a high collection value among foragers. While it is popular and edible, enthusiasts should exercise caution by correctly identifying horn of plenty to avoid confusion with toxic species.

Scientific Classification of Horn of plenty

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Cantharellales

Family

Chanterelle

Genus

Craterellus

Similar Species to Horn of plenty

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Devil's urn

Similar Species

Horn of plenty

How to Differentiate Between Devil's urn and Horn of plenty?

Horn of plenty: Cap's outer surface is usually smooth or gently wrinkled.

Devil's urn: Surface exhibits a rough or scaly texture.

Horn of plenty: Often found in hardwood forests, particularly in mossy areas.

Devil's urn: Typically found on decayed wood or near old stumps and logs.

Tips for Finding Horn of plenty

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When is the Best Time to Find Horn of plenty

Search for horn of plenty from late summer to mid-fall when the weather is damp and the ground is moist from recent rains. Morning forays after a warm, wet period increase your chances of success.

What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Horn of plenty

Rich, moist, calcareous, often in moss.

What are Some Tips for Finding Horn of plenty

Search beneath beech trees, inspecting the ground closely for clusters.
Look for small, dark shapes in mossy areas, as horn of plenty often associates with moss.
Investigate the leaf litter in deciduous forests, as horn of plenty may be camouflaged.
Gently move aside leaves and debris in likely areas to reveal hidden clusters.

How to Clean and Preserve Horn of plenty

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How to Clean Horn of plenty

To clean horn of plenty, start by removing any debris or dirt in the field to minimize cleaning later. Since horn of plenty are hollow, they can be easily dried after gentle washing. Handle them gently to preserve their delicate structure.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Horn of plenty

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying

Drying Duration

6 - 12 months

Store in airtight containers, in dark, cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.

Dehydrator drying: Efficiently removes moisture, preserves texture and flavor, suitable for high water content.

Oven drying: Set at low temperature with door slightly open, allows for controlled drying for consistent results.

Air drying: Use in arid climates with good airflow, hang or place on racks, natural and energy-conserving.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of Horn of plenty

Freezing Methods

Blanching Before Freezing

Freezing Duration

10 - 12 months

Blanching before freezing: Enhances texture retention and reduces enzyme activity that can cause spoilage.

Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Horn of plenty

Refrigerating Methods

Paper Bag Storage, Container with Absorbent Lining, Plastic Wrap Storage

Temperature

2 - 4 ℃

Refrigerating Humidity

90 - 95 %

Refrigerating Duration

5 - 7 days

Paper Bag Storage: Store in paper bags to allow for air circulation and moisture absorption, preventing sogginess and spoilage.

Container with Absorbent Lining: Place in a shallow cardboard box with paper towel layers in between to absorb excess moisture and promote longevity.

Plastic Wrap Storage: Cover with perforated plastic wrap for a controlled environment that limits moisture accumulation yet allows some air exchange.

Common Questions People Also Ask

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