A species of Powdercaps, Also known as Saffron powder-cap, Pure cystoderma
Commonly found in lawns, moors, heath, and other wet grasslands, the earthy powdercap (Cystoderma amianthinum) can produce large “fairy rings” in places where fertilizers or chemicals have not been sprayed. Its distinctive stem is smooth just beneath the cap but abruptly shaggy below, giving the appearance that each mushroom is wearing a little sock!
Cap Diameter:
2 - 5 cm
Odor:
Often pungent and musty.
In This Article
Attributes
Similar Species
Tips for Finding
Clean and Preserve
Common Questions
General Info About Earthy powdercap
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Attributes of Earthy powdercap
Cap Diameter
2 - 5 cm
Height
4 - 10 cm
Cap
Cap 2 - 5 cm across; convex to flat; bright ocher to ocher-tan; surface with finely granular, smooth, radially wrinkled; margin with veil remnants
Cap Shape
Convex, Bell-shaped, Flat
Cap Surfaces
Fibrillose-scaly
Gills
Attached; close; white to cream
Gill Attachment
Attached
Stem
Stem 3 - 7 cm long, 3 - 8 mm thick; cylindrical; bright ocher to ocher-tan; surface smooth, granular-scaly
Stem Shapes
Cylindrical
Stem Surfaces
Scaly
Stem Cross Sections
Hollow or cottony hollow
Flesh
Thin; whitish
Ring
On the stem; powdery
Ring
With Ring
Spore Print Color
White
Odor
Often pungent and musty.
Body Color
Brown
Yellow
Red
Flesh Bruises
The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.
The earthy powdercap can be found in open grassy areas, in heathlands, acid grasslands and moorlands, and along roads and woodland edges. It grows on the ground, in moss or grass.
Distribution Area of Earthy powdercap
North America,Europe,northern Asia,New Zealand
Hunting Values of Earthy powdercap
Edibility is controversial and risky, due to the presence of easily confusable toxic species.
Uses of Earthy powdercap
Earthy powdercap is a mushroom with questionable edibility, indicating that while it may be consumed by some, it carries potential risks. Its practical applications are limited due to the uncertainty surrounding its safety for consumption. Collectors should exercise caution and be well-informed before considering its use in culinary practices. The popularity and seasonal availability of earthy powdercap do not outweigh the importance of ensuring consumer safety.
How to Differentiate Between Earthy webcap and Earthy powdercap?
Earthy powdercap: Possesses a granular or scaly cap.
Earthy webcap: Typically has a smoother cap surface.
Earthy powdercap: Features white to cream-colored gills.
Earthy webcap: Has brownish gills.
Tips for Finding Earthy powdercap
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When is the Best Time to Find Earthy powdercap
Search for earthy powdercap during late summer to autumn. These months provide the cool, damp conditions that earthy powdercap prefers. Look after periods of rain when the ground is still moist but not waterlogged.
What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Earthy powdercap
Moist, well-drained, often rich in organic matter.
What are Some Tips for Finding Earthy powdercap
Explore areas with abundant moss, especially under conifer trees.
Look for earthy powdercap in moss beds, typically found in forested areas.
Inspect the edges of bogs and heathlands, as well as margins of woodlands and grasslands.
Focus search efforts on moist soils that are well-drained and rich in organic content.
How to Clean and Preserve Earthy powdercap
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How to Clean Earthy powdercap
To clean earthy powdercap, shower briefly in a bowl of water, gently stirring to loosen dirt, which settles at the bottom. Lift mushrooms out, pat dry immediately. Avoid soaking to maintain integrity.
Tips on Dry Preservation of Earthy powdercap
Drying Methods
Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying
Drying Duration
6 - 12 months
Store in airtight containers, in dark, cool, low-humidity conditions to maintain quality.
Dehydrator drying: Efficient method for removing moisture while preserving texture and quality.
Oven drying: Set oven to low heat, ensuring even drying without overcooking.
Air drying: Suitable for low-humidity areas; spread out thinly, requires good air circulation.
Tips on Freezing Preservation of Earthy powdercap
Freezing Methods
Blanching Before Freezing
Freezing Duration
10 - 12 months
Blanching before freezing: Inactivates enzymes, helps retain texture and color.
Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Earthy powdercap
Refrigerating Methods
Paper Bag Storage, Perforated Plastic Bag Storage, Cloth Wrapping
Temperature
2 - 4 ℃
Refrigerating Humidity
90 - 95 %
Refrigerating Duration
5 - 7 days
Paper Bag Storage: Allows moisture to escape while protecting from drying out, suited for balance in water content.
Perforated Plastic Bag Storage: Provides airflow and retains some moisture, preventing dehydration and spoilage.
Cloth Wrapping: Cloth maintains humidity while container protects from contamination and excess moisture loss.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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