The common name of this mushroom refers to the fact that it looks very similar to the edible and highly prized Chanterelle. This species, however, tastes bitter and may cause poisoning symptoms. False chanterelle occurs around the northern hemisphere in autumn and winter, growing on coniferous detritus, and is more likely to fruit in dry conditions rather than the usual wet.
Cap Diameter:
2 - 8 cm
Odor:
Subtly fragrant and non-distinctive.
In This Article
Attributes
Toxicity and Edibility
Similar Species
Tips for Finding
Clean and Preserve
Common Questions
General Info About False chanterelle
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 False chanterelle
Cap Diameter
2 - 8 cm
Height
3 - 7 cm
Cap
Cap 4 - 8 cm across; convex to flat, funnel-shaped; yellow-orange to ocher-buff; with downy
Cap Shape
Convex, Flat, Depressed
Cap Surfaces
Velvety, Fibrillose-scaly
Gills
Decurrent; close, crowded; deep orange to orange-red
Gill Attachment
Decurrent
Stem
Stem 2 - 5 cm long, 1 cm thick; yellow-orange to ocher-buff; surface smooth
Stem Shapes
Tapering
Stem Surfaces
Scaly
Stem Cross Sections
Hollow or cottony hollow
Flesh
Thin; whitish
Ring
Ringless
Spore Print Color
White
Odor
Subtly fragrant and non-distinctive.
Body Color
Brown
Yellow
Orange
Flesh Bruises
The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.
Growth Form
Solitary, Scattered, Gregarious
Nutrient Gathering
Saprophytic
Substrate
Leaf or Needle Litter, Wood Chips or Mulch, Dead Woods
The false chanterelle is often found in coniferous forests, mostly under pine and redwood. It thrives on humus, rotting wood, wood chips, or any kind of decaying organic material.
Distribution Area of False chanterelle
North America,Europe,Central and South America,northern Asia,Australia,New Zealand
Hunting Values of False chanterelle
Its edibility is controversial; some people have no issue eating it, others experience discomfort after consumption.
Uses of False chanterelle
False chanterelle is classified as a questionable edible mushroom, indicating that while it may be consumed by some, it should be approached with caution. Its practical uses are limited due to potential confusion with toxic species and variability in edibility reports. Despite this, false chanterelle is sometimes collected during its fruiting season. Collectors and foragers should exercise extreme care, ensuring correct identification and awareness of the risks involved before considering consumption.
Unlock the Secrets of Mushroom Varieties, Edibility, Toxicity, and Safety Tips!
Download the App for Free
Is False chanterelle Toxic?
The toxicity of false chanterelle is subject to debate among experts. While not classified as dangerously toxic, certain individuals have reported hallucinations and gastrointestinal upset after consuming this species. Additionally, it bears similarity to the poisonous Omphalotus illudens presenting a risk of confusion.
Toxic Severity
Low to moderate toxicity
Incubation Period
0.5-24 hours
Similar Species to False chanterelle
Unlocking the Secrets of Identifying Many Types of Mushroom
Master the Art of Distinguishing Mushroom Varieties with Expert Tips.
How to Differentiate Between Hygrophoropsis rufa and False chanterelle?
False chanterelle: Generally, the cap is a deep orange with a brown hue.
Hygrophoropsis rufa: The cap is most often a pale orange to red-orange.
Tips for Finding False chanterelle
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 False chanterelle
Seek false chanterelle from late summer to fall, after rainfall, when the ground is moist but not waterlogged. Mornings often present the freshest specimens. Temperatures should be mild, ranging between 50°F (10°C) and 68°F (20°C).
What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for False chanterelle
Prefers acidic, woody debris-rich soil.
What are Some Tips for Finding False chanterelle
Search areas with a high presence of decomposed forest matter or woody debris, especially beneath conifer trees.
Look for false chanterelle where there have been recent tree felling or mulching activities, as they may thrive on the leftover woody chips.
Inspect the ground carefully in environments such as pine forests, where the soil is acidic and organic matter plentiful.
Explore both isolated and clustered trees within coniferous regions, as false chanterelle can grow in both arrangements.
Check for false chanterelle on well-rotted wood if found in heathlands or areas with mixed deciduous trees.
How to Clean and Preserve False chanterelle
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 False chanterelle
To clean false chanterelle, gently brush off any debris using a soft brush or a damp paper towel. Refrain from submerging them in water to preserve their structure. Handle false chanterelle with care, as they can be quite delicate.
Tips on Dry Preservation of False chanterelle
Drying Methods
Dehydrator Drying
Drying Duration
6 - 12 months
Store in a cool, dry place with low humidity and away from direct sunlight.
Dehydrator drying: Efficient moisture removal, ideal for high water content.
Tips on Freezing Preservation of False chanterelle
Freezing Duration
10 - 12 months
Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of False chanterelle
Refrigerating Methods
Paper Bag Storage, Ventilated Container Storage, Container with Absorbent Lining
Temperature
2 - 4 ℃
Refrigerating Humidity
85 - 90 %
Refrigerating Duration
5 - 7 days
Paper Bag Storage: Utilizes the absorbency of paper to reduce moisture accumulation and promote air circulation.
Ventilated Container Storage: Small holes in plastic bags allow air flow while partly retaining moisture.
Container with Absorbent Lining: Layering a clean, damp towel inside creates a humid microclimate preventing dry out.
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!
