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Gray almond waxy cap

Hygrophorus agathosmus

A species of Woodwaxes

Gray almond waxy cap emits a scent of bitter almonds. It contains five different antioxidants that have been shown to inhibit the growth of yeast and other pathogenic bacteria. It can be found throughout Europe, Africa, and India in spruce and pine woodlands.

Cap Diameter:

2 - 7 cm

Odor:

Fragrant, often with an almond-like sharpness.

General Info About Gray almond waxy cap

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Attributes of Gray almond waxy cap

Cap Diameter

2 - 7 cm

Height

5 - 9 cm

Cap

Cap 2 - 4.5 cm across; convex to flat; brownish gray to gray

Cap Shape

Convex, Flat, Depressed

Cap Surfaces

Smooth, Slimy or slightly sticky

Gills

Broadly attached, decurrent; distant; white

Gill Attachment

Attached

Stem

Stem 4 - 8 cm long, 5 - 15 mm thick; equal, tapering to base; white; with finely silky

Stem Shapes

Tapering

Stem Surfaces

Smooth

Stem Cross Sections

Hollow or cottony hollow

Flesh

White; unchanging when sliced

Ring

Ringless

Spore Print Color

White

Odor

Fragrant, often with an almond-like sharpness.

Body Color

Brown

Gray

White

Flesh Bruises

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

Growth Form

Scattered, Gregarious

Nutrient Gathering

Mycorrhizal

Substrate

On soil, Leaf or Needle Litter

You can find Gray almond waxy cap by these plants:

Spruces, Oaks, Pines, Norway spruce

Occurence Habitats

Coniferous Woodland

Species Status

Widely distributed

Endangered Species

How to Identify Gray almond waxy cap

Fruiting Body Cap Gills

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Habitat of Gray almond waxy cap

Gray almond waxy cap often grows in association with conifers, such as pines and spruces, found in varied wooded areas, from coastal forests to lower mountain elevations.

Uses of Gray almond waxy cap

Gray almond waxy cap is a prized edible mushroom, sought after for its unique aroma and flavor, enhancing culinary dishes. It's seasonally available and valued by foragers and chefs alike. While popular in certain regions, it must be correctly identified to avoid confusion with inedible species. As an edible mushroom, gray almond waxy cap is safe when properly prepared but always requires careful identification before consumption.

Scientific Classification of Gray almond waxy cap

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Gilled fungi

Family

Waxgills

Genus

Woodwaxes

Similar Species to Gray almond waxy cap

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Tips for Finding Gray almond waxy cap

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When is the Best Time to Find Gray almond waxy cap

Seek gray almond waxy cap in the autumn months, particularly after periods of rain when the ground is moist. Ideal temperatures are between 50-65°F (10-18°C) during the day.

What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Gray almond waxy cap

Moist, well-drained soil under coniferous trees.

What are Some Tips for Finding Gray almond waxy cap

Search in areas with high conifer presence, where pines and spruces dominate.
Look for gray almond waxy cap in moist areas where the soil is well-drained and rich in organic matter.
Check beneath conifer trees, as gray almond waxy cap tends to grow scattered or in small groups around these habitats.
Since gray almond waxy cap may be camouflaged by forest debris, gently brush away leaves and needles when searching.

How to Clean and Preserve Gray almond waxy cap

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How to Clean Gray almond waxy cap

To clean gray almond waxy cap, gently rinse them under running water or brush off the dirt. Avoid soaking as they absorb water quickly; a brief shower is preferable to a bath. After rinsing, pat gray almond waxy cap dry with a towel, handling them carefully to maintain their physical integrity.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Gray almond waxy cap

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying

Drying Duration

6 - 12 months

Store in air-tight containers, cool, dark, with low humidity.

Dehydrator drying: Controlled temperatures quickly reduce moisture without cooking.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of Gray almond waxy cap

Freezing Methods

Blanching Before Freezing

Freezing Duration

10 - 12 months

Blanching before freezing: Blanch to inactivate enzymes, then cool quickly and freeze.

Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Gray almond waxy cap

Refrigerating Methods

Paper Bag Storage, Cloth Wrapping, Perforated Plastic Bag Storage, Original Packaging Storage

Temperature

3 ℃

Refrigerating Humidity

90 - 95 %

Refrigerating Duration

5 - 10 days

Paper Bag Storage: Use a paper bag to allow moisture release and prevent sogginess.

Cloth Wrapping: Enclose mushrooms in a damp cloth to maintain humidity without waterlogging.

Perforated Plastic Bag Storage: Store in a bag with holes to balance moisture retention and air circulation.

Original Packaging Storage: Keep in its original packaging if it facilitates breathing and moisture balance.

Common Questions People Also Ask

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