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Meadow waxcap

Cuphophyllus pratensis

A species of Waxcaps, Also known as Butter meadowcap

The meadow waxcap is a medium-sized, salmon-colored species that can be found in temperate habitats around the world. The species has broad, thick gills and a relatively smooth (and not particularly waxy) cap.

Cap Diameter:

2 - 7 cm

Odor:

Mildly mushroom-like, slightly unpleasant.

General Info About Meadow waxcap

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Attributes of Meadow waxcap

Cap Diameter

2 - 7 cm

Height

3 - 8 cm

Cap

Cap 2 - 6 cm; convex to nearly flat; brownish orange to orangish buff; dry, covered with very tiny fibers; the margin not lined

Cap Shape

Convex, Flat, Central Bump

Cap Surfaces

Smooth, Fibrillose-scaly

Gills

Shortly decurrent; distant or nearly so; creamy orangish

Gill Attachment

Decurrent

Stem

Stem 2.5 - 4.5 cm long, 5 - 15 mm thick; fairly equal; creamy orangish to whitish, white at the base; bald, dry, smooth

Stem Shapes

Cylindrical

Stem Surfaces

Fibrillose

Flesh

Whitish; unchanging when sliced

Ring

Ringless

Spore Print Color

White

Odor

Mildly mushroom-like, slightly unpleasant.

Body Color

Brown

Yellow

White

Orange

Cream

Flesh Bruises

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

Growth Form

Solitary, Scattered, Gregarious

Nutrient Gathering

Saprophytic

Substrate

On soil, Mosses

You can find Meadow waxcap by these plants:

Spruces, Oaks

Occurence Habitats

Deciduous Woodland, Coniferous Woodland, Mixed Woodland, Meadows

Species Status

Widely distributed in North America

Endangered Species

How to Identify Meadow waxcap

Fruiting Body Cap Gills

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Habitat of Meadow waxcap

The meadow waxcap occurs in mixed forests, grassy open areas, upland pastures, cropped grasslands, and roadsides. It grows on the ground, often appearing in moss and duff under conifers.

Distribution Area of Meadow waxcap

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

Uses of Meadow waxcap

Meadow waxcap is a versatile edible mushroom, favored for its practical culinary applications. It is seasonally available and can add value to dishes with its distinct flavor. As a commonly edible species, meadow waxcap is popular among foragers and chefs alike. Despite its edibility, consumers should always ensure proper identification before consumption to avoid mistaking it for look-alikes with potential risks.

Scientific Classification of Meadow waxcap

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Gilled fungi

Family

Waxgills

Genus

Waxcaps

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Tips for Finding Meadow waxcap

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When is the Best Time to Find Meadow waxcap

Search for meadow waxcap from late summer to fall, when the ground is moist after rainfall but before the first frost sets in. Mild temperatures and damp conditions are most favorable.

What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Meadow waxcap

Prefers unfertilized, nutrient-poor soil.

What are Some Tips for Finding Meadow waxcap

Focus searches in mixed woodland areas, prioritizing spots with hardwoods and conifers.
Inspect closely mown grassland areas, especially those that are free of heavy artificial fertilization.
Search near roadsides in upland pastures that are grazed by sheep as meadow waxcap may be more prevalent in these conditions.
Look for these mushrooms in open areas within forests or grasslands, where they can grow scattered or in small groups.

How to Clean and Preserve Meadow waxcap

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How to Clean Meadow waxcap

The cleaning method for meadow waxcap involves gently removing any visible dirt and debris. Use a soft brush or cloth to delicately wipe the surface, avoiding water as it can damage the delicate structure. Maintaining the mushroom's physical integrity is crucial, so handle meadow waxcap with utmost care to preserve its natural state.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Meadow waxcap

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying

Drying Duration

6 - 12 months

Store in a dark, cool, dry place in airtight containers to maintain preservation quality.

Dehydrator drying: Control of temperature and airflow optimizes drying, preserving texture and efficacy.

Oven drying: Consistent low heat facilitates moisture removal without cooking the tissue.

Air drying: Circulating air naturally desiccates, appropriate for less moisture-dense varieties.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of Meadow waxcap

Freezing Methods

Blanching Before Freezing

Freezing Duration

10 - 12 months

Blanching before freezing: Inactivates enzymes, retains texture better for high water content species.

Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Meadow waxcap

Refrigerating Methods

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

Temperature

2 - 4 ℃

Refrigerating Humidity

85 - 95 %

Refrigerating Duration

5 - 7 days

Paper Bag Storage: Absorbs excess moisture, maintaining freshness and preventing sogginess.

Plastic Wrap Storage: Allows for slight airflow while still retaining necessary humidity.

Cloth Wrapping: Wrapping in a damp cloth can keep mushrooms moist but not wet, preserving texture.

Original Packaging Storage: If sold in breathable containers, keeping them in there is practical and maintains quality.

Common Questions People Also Ask

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