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Chestnut brittlestem

Homophron spadiceum

A species of Homophron

Chestnut brittlestem grows from woody substrates, often producing prodigious numbers of fruiting bodies in a single area. The caps can appear brown, white, or graduating shades of both. Chestnut brittlestem was first scientifically described in 1783 but has been reclassified into different genera several times since then.

Cap Diameter:

2 - 12 cm

Odor:

Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.

General Info About Chestnut brittlestem

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Attributes of Chestnut brittlestem

Cap Diameter

2 - 12 cm

Height

3 - 9 cm

Cap

Cap 2 - 12 cm; convex or irregularly flat; brown; smooth; margin is non striate

Cap Surfaces

Visible lines or stripes

Gills

Adnate; very crowded; when young very pale brown, then brown with red tinges

Gill Attachment

Attached

Stem

25-100 × 3–12 mm; rigid, equal or slightly thickened towards base; pale brown

Stem Shapes

Cylindrical

Stem Cross Sections

Hollow or cottony hollow

Flesh

Fibrous; pale, concolorous to skin or cream, unchanging

Ring

Ringless

Spore Print Color

Reddish to red-brown

Odor

Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.

Body Color

Brown

Red

Flesh Bruises

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

Growth Form

Gregarious, Clustered

Nutrient Gathering

Saprophytic

Substrate

On soil

You can find Chestnut brittlestem by these plants:

European beech

Species Status

More common in northern regions in North America

Endangered Species

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Habitat of Chestnut brittlestem

These mushrooms thrive in deciduous woods with moist, leaf-strewn floors. Preferred areas are near water sources such as riverbanks or streams, and in the presence of mosses and decaying wood.

Hunting Values of Chestnut brittlestem

The edibility is controversial. Some guides consider it edible, but others do not. Overall, this mushroom doesn't have any special flavor and isn't worth collecting.

Uses of Chestnut brittlestem

Chestnut brittlestem is a mushroom with questionable edibility, indicating that consumption could pose health risks. It is not widely popular as an edible species due to potential toxicity or adverse effects. Collectors should exercise caution and avoid ingesting chestnut brittlestem without expert identification and advice. Its practical applications are limited, and it does not have a significant role in culinary or medicinal practices. Always prioritize safety when encountering mushrooms of uncertain edibility.

Scientific Classification of Chestnut brittlestem

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Gilled fungi

Family

Coprinaceae

Genus

Homophron

Similar Species to Chestnut brittlestem

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Poison pie

Similar Species

Chestnut brittlestem

How to Differentiate Between Poison pie and Chestnut brittlestem?

Chestnut brittlestem: Typically grows in clusters near the base of trees.

Poison pie: Generally grows alone or dispersed on the forest floor.

Wood pinkgill

Similar Species

Chestnut brittlestem

How to Differentiate Between Wood pinkgill and Chestnut brittlestem?

Chestnut brittlestem: Typically forms clusters near the base of trees.

Wood pinkgill: Generally grows solitary or in small groups, often on ground litter in forests.

Chestnut brittlestem: Rusty-brown spore print.

Wood pinkgill: Pink spore print.

Tips for Finding Chestnut brittlestem

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When is the Best Time to Find Chestnut brittlestem

Seek chestnut brittlestem in autumn, particularly after periods of rainfall that follow dry spells. Look when temperatures range from 50-60°F (10-15°C), as these conditions often trigger fruiting.

What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Chestnut brittlestem

Moist and nutrient-rich, with decaying organic matter.

What are Some Tips for Finding Chestnut brittlestem

Survey areas of deciduous forests with a thick layer of fallen leaves.
Explore along riverbanks or streams where the soil stays moist.
Search near fallen branches, decaying logs, and patches of moss.
Plan excursions after periods of rainfall, as these conditions prompt mushroom growth.
Inspect the ground carefully, especially in shaded spots where chestnut brittlestem may be less visible.

How to Clean and Preserve Chestnut brittlestem

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How to Clean Chestnut brittlestem

To clean chestnut brittlestem, gently brush off any debris with a soft brush. If damp, blot with a paper towel. Avoid soaking, as water can make the mushrooms slimy. Handle with care to maintain integrity. For stubborn particles, use tweezers carefully.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Chestnut brittlestem

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying

Drying Duration

12 - 24 months

Store in a cool, dark place with low humidity and good air circulation.

Dehydrator drying: Efficient at removing moisture while maintaining structural integrity.

Oven drying: Quicker than air drying, good for fungi with higher water content.

Air drying: Suitable for less moist varieties, though slower and dependent on climate conditions.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of Chestnut brittlestem

Freezing Methods

Blanching Before Freezing

Freezing Duration

10 - 12 months

Blanching before freezing: Inactivates enzymes, preserves texture and color.

Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Chestnut brittlestem

Refrigerating Methods

Paper Bag Storage, Perforated Plastic Bag Storage, Cloth Wrapping, Crisper Drawer Storage

Temperature

2 - 4 ℃

Refrigerating Humidity

90 - 95 %

Refrigerating Duration

5 - 7 days

Paper Bag Storage: Place mushrooms in paper bags to allow air circulation, reducing moisture buildup and spoilage.

Perforated Plastic Bag Storage: Enclose mushrooms in perforated plastic that allows gases to escape while maintaining humidity balance.

Cloth Wrapping: Store mushrooms in a container covered with a lightly damp cloth to maintain humidity without wetness.

Crisper Drawer Storage: Use a sectioned-off drawer to prevent cross-contamination and allow for easier regulation of temperature and airflow.

Common Questions People Also Ask

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