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Photo By Rosemary Winnall

Parrot waxcap

Gliophorus psittacinus

A species of Waxcaps, Also known as Parrot toadstool

This distinctive mushroom is most recognizable when it is young. Freshly-fruited parrot waxcaps boast beautiful caps and stalks that have both the hue and the sheen of polished jade - the gills underneath are often canary yellow, creating a striking and colorful contrast. The species, which is fond of moist grasslands and pastures, can be found across temperate areas of the northern hemisphere, as well as South Africa.

Cap Diameter:

5 - 25 mm

Odor:

Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.

General Info About Parrot waxcap

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Attributes of Parrot waxcap

Cap Diameter

5 - 25 mm

Height

4 - 6 cm

Cap

Cap 5 - 25 mm across; broadly convex, flat; variable in colors; smooth, bald, slimy

Cap Shape

Convex, Bell-shaped, Flat, Central Bump

Cap Surfaces

Slimy or slightly sticky

Gills

Narrowly attached; close or nearly distant; pale green, yellowish

Gill Attachment

Attached

Stem

Stem 1 - 4 cm long, 2 - 3 mm thick; equal; pale yellowish; bald, slimy, smooth

Stem Shapes

Cylindrical

Stem Surfaces

Smooth

Stem Cross Sections

Hollow or cottony hollow

Flesh

Thin; whitish

Ring

Ringless

Spore Print Color

White

Odor

Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.

Body Color

Green

Yellow

Orange

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 Parrot waxcap by these plants:

White oak, Maples, Hawthorns

Occurence Habitats

Deciduous Woodland, Coniferous Woodland, Meadows

Species Status

Widely distributed

Endangered Species

How to Identify Parrot waxcap

Fruiting Body Cap Gills

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Habitat of Parrot waxcap

The parrot waxcap appears in disturbed and urban areas, roadside verges, cropped grasslands, churchyards, but also in woodland and woodland clearings. It prefers mossy habitats, humus, and damp soil.

Distribution Area of Parrot waxcap

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

Hunting Values of Parrot waxcap

Edibility is debated. While some guides deem it edible and others do not, this species isn't common and its slimy surface makes it unsuitable for collection.

Uses of Parrot waxcap

Parrot waxcap is a mushroom with questionable edibility, implying that while it may not be toxic, its consumption is not widely recommended due to potential adverse effects. It lacks significant culinary value and is not popular as an edible species. Collectors should exercise caution and prioritize identification accuracy if encountered, especially since it does not have a clear seasonal availability. There are no well-documented medicinal or traditional uses for this mushroom, underscoring the importance of safety when considering its use.

Scientific Classification of Parrot waxcap

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Gilled fungi

Family

Waxgills

Genus

Waxcaps

Toxicity and Edibility of Parrot waxcap

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Is Parrot waxcap Toxic?

Parrot waxcap is found in both hardwood and conifer forests, often growing in moss. Some authorities list it as mildly poisonous or inedible due to its slimy texture and insubstantial size. If consumed, it can cause minor digestive upset, indicating potential toxicity. Additionally, its rarity, particularly in Europe, has led to recommendations against collection for consumption. While the mushroom's exact toxic compounds are not fully understood, its consumption should be avoided to prevent potential health issues and protect its populations.

Type of poisoning

Gastrointestinal

Toxic Severity

Low toxicity

Incubation Period

0.5-4 hours

Poisoning Symptoms

Experience of minor digestive upset in the stomach and intestines.

Similar Species to Parrot waxcap

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Tips for Finding Parrot waxcap

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When is the Best Time to Find Parrot waxcap

Seek out parrot waxcap during late summer to early autumn, post rainfall, as the soil moisture and cooler temperatures support its growth. The ideal temperature range for foraging is between 50°F (10°C) and 68°F (20°C).

What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Parrot waxcap

Prefers damp soil, rich in humus and moss.

What are Some Tips for Finding Parrot waxcap

Target areas within hardwood and conifer forests that have abundant moss growth.
Look for parrot waxcap around moist, moss-covered embankments and shady roadsides within these forests.
Check damp, humus-rich soils in long-untreated grasslands and woodland clearings.
Focus searches on areas where artificial fertilizers have not been used for many years.
Keep explorations to damp environments where mosses thrive, implying mutualistic associations.

How to Clean and Preserve Parrot waxcap

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How to Clean Parrot waxcap

To clean parrot waxcap, brush off any visible dirt gently with a soft brush. For stubborn bits, use a slightly damp paper towel to carefully wipe the surface. Avoid soaking as parrot waxcap may be delicate. Handle parrot waxcap with care to maintain their physical integrity.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Parrot waxcap

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying

Drying Duration

6 - 12 months

Store in a air-tight container in a cool, dark, low-humidity environment for best preservation.

Dehydrator drying: Even heat and air flow ensures thorough drying without cooking.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of Parrot waxcap

Freezing Methods

Blanching Before Freezing

Freezing Duration

10 - 12 months

Blanching before freezing: Brief heat exposure to deactivate enzymes, then quick cooling and freezing.

Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Parrot waxcap

Refrigerating Methods

Paper Bag Storage, Perforated Plastic Bag Storage, Cloth Wrapping, Ventilated Container Storage

Temperature

2 - 4 ℃

Refrigerating Humidity

90 - 95 %

Refrigerating Duration

5 - 7 days

Paper Bag Storage: Place mushrooms in a paper bag to allow ethylene to escape and reduce moisture buildup.

Perforated Plastic Bag Storage: Mild airflow through small holes prevents condensation and spoilage while retaining moisture.

Cloth Wrapping: Keeps mushrooms moist but not waterlogged, preserving texture and freshness.

Ventilated Container Storage: Paper absorbs excess moisture, and loose lid maintains airflow.

Common Questions People Also Ask

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Is a parrot waxcap edible?

Is parrot waxcap dangerous?

Where does parrot waxcap grow?

When does parrot waxcap appear?

Are parrot waxcap psychedelic?

Can you touch a parrot waxcap?

More Mushrooms That Are Similar to Parrot waxcap

Mousepee pinkgill

Entoloma incanum

Gliophorus viridis

Heath waxcap

Gliophorus laetus