Dark fieldcap is distinguishable for its dark cap that surprisingly does not lose its color as the fungus reaches maturity. Dark fieldcap thrives in hardwood and softwood forests, and also grows in rotting mulch piles.
Cap Diameter:
4 - 7 cm
Odor:
Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.
In This Article
Attributes
Similar Species
Tips for Finding
Clean and Preserve
Common Questions
General Info About Dark fieldcap
Instantly identify mushrooms with a snap
Snap a photo for instant mushroom ID and risk assessment, gaining quick insights on edible guidelines, toxicity, medical value, habitat, culture, and foraging techniques, etc.
Download the App for Free
Attributes of Dark fieldcap
Cap Diameter
4 - 7 cm
Height
5 - 10 cm
Cap
Cap 1.5 - 5 cm across; nearly round, convex, planoconvex; dark brown, dull tan; with a little wrinkled; margin with whitish partial veil remnants
Cap Shape
Convex, Central Bump
Cap Surfaces
Slimy or slightly sticky, Visible lines or stripes
Gills
Decurrent; close; whitish
Gill Attachment
Attached
Stem
Stem 4 - 8 cm long, 3 - 10 mm thick; whitish, brownish; surface bald or finely pruinose
Stem Shapes
Cylindrical
Stem Surfaces
Smooth
Stem Cross Sections
Hollow or cottony hollow
Flesh
White to brownish; not changing when sliced
Ring
On stem; flaring; white
Ring
With Ring
Spore Print Color
Brown
Odor
Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.
Body Color
Brown
White
Flesh Bruises
The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.
Growth Form
Scattered, Gregarious
Nutrient Gathering
Saprophytic
Substrate
On soil, Leaf or Needle Litter, Wood Chips or Mulch
Dark fieldcap is found in a variety of wooded environments, including both hardwood and coniferous forests, as well as urban areas such as gardens and parks.
Hunting Values of Dark fieldcap
Dangerous, as there are toxic species which are difficult to distinguish from it.
Uses of Dark fieldcap
Dark fieldcap is recognized as an edible mushroom but comes with significant risks. It's sought after by foragers and gourmet chefs for its unique flavor, especially during its peak season. However, due to potential toxicity, it must be prepared with extreme caution. Its popularity is tempered by the dangers associated with improper preparation or consumption. Always consult experts before use and ensure proper identification to avoid health hazards.
How to Differentiate Between Veiled Fairy Cake and Dark fieldcap?
Dark fieldcap: Has a mild or not distinctive smell.
Veiled Fairy Cake: Emits a radish-like smell.
Dark fieldcap: Features a ring on the stem.
Veiled Fairy Cake: Does not display ring on the stem.
Tips for Finding Dark fieldcap
Your Ultimate Guide to Understanding Mushrooms
Explore the Ins and Outs of Mushroom Hunting: Timing, Optimal Soil Conditions, and More Tips!
Download the App for Free
When is the Best Time to Find Dark fieldcap
Search for dark fieldcap during the cooler months of fall, after substantial rainfall. Ideal conditions are when morning temperatures are crisp and the soil is moist, but not waterlogged.
What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Dark fieldcap
Prefers ground litter of wooded areas, no specific soil.
What are Some Tips for Finding Dark fieldcap
Search in wooded areas, focusing on the ground where leaf and wood debris accumulate.
Check under hardwood and conifer trees, especially where the ground is covered with fallen leaves.
Inspect garden landscapes and park grounds, especially those with mulched areas.
How to Clean and Preserve Dark fieldcap
Your Comprehensive Mushroom Preservation Guide
Explore efficient methods for cleaning and preserving mushrooms to ensure their freshness and quality.
Download the App for Free
How to Clean Dark fieldcap
To clean dark fieldcap, gently brush off any dirt using a soft brush, taking care to preserve their delicate skirt. For stubborn debris, lightly dab with a damp cloth, handling with care to maintain integrity. Avoid washing or soaking, as their thin texture readily absorbs moisture.
Tips on Dry Preservation of Dark fieldcap
Drying Methods
Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying
Drying Duration
6 - 12 months
Store in a cool, dark, dry place in an airtight container with desiccants to prevent moisture absorption.
Dehydrator drying: Ensures controlled, consistent heat and air flow for thorough moisture removal.
Oven drying: Utilizes low, steady temperature to gradually eliminate water content without burning.
Air drying: Uses natural airflow and is suitable for less moist varieties; can be slow.
Tips on Freezing Preservation of Dark fieldcap
Freezing Methods
Blanching Before Freezing
Freezing Duration
10 - 12 months
Blanching before freezing: Inactivates enzymes to preserve quality.
Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Dark fieldcap
Refrigerating Methods
Paper Bag Storage, Original Packaging Storage, Plastic Wrap Storage
Temperature
2 - 4 ℃
Refrigerating Humidity
85 - 95 %
Refrigerating Duration
5 - 7 days
Paper Bag Storage: Paper bags absorb excess moisture, allowing the mushrooms to 'breathe' and reducing spoilage.
Original Packaging Storage: Retail packaging is designed for optimal shelf life; keep mushrooms in original container if possible.
Plastic Wrap Storage: Lightly wrap with perforated plastic to balance moisture retention and airflow, preventing condensation.
Common Questions People Also Ask
Get Quick Mushroom Answers with a Snap
Snap a photo for instant mushroom ID and answers on edible guidelines, toxicity, medical value, habitat, culture, and foraging techniques!
Download the App for Free
Get Picture Mushroom now
Try out Picture Mushroom app on your phone and identify thousands of mushrooms for free
Learn more info about mushrooms from our rich and growing database.
Scan QR code to download
Get Picture Mushroom now
Try out Picture Mushroom app on your phone and identify thousands of mushrooms for free
Learn more info about mushrooms from our rich and growing database.
