This mushroom appears in groups around the northern hemisphere in parks, lawns, open fields, and roadsides. The name, weeping widow, refers to the watery, black droplets that accumulate around the caps when moist. Do not eat this mushroom; some poisonings may be connected to it.
Cap Diameter:
4 - 12 cm
Odor:
Mildly fungal, not particularly distinct.
In This Article
Attributes
Toxicity and Edibility
Similar Species
Tips for Finding
Clean and Preserve
Common Questions
General Info About Weeping widow
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Attributes of Weeping widow
Cap Diameter
4 - 12 cm
Height
5 - 12 cm
Cap
Cap 3 - 8 cm across; convex to weakly umbonate; buff to tan, brown; with finely fibrous; margin with fibrous veil remnants
Cap Shape
Bell-shaped, Convex, Central Bump
Cap Surfaces
Fibrillose-scaly, Visible lines or stripes
Gills
Adnexed; close, crowded; blackish, whitish
Gill Attachment
Free to Attached
Stem
Stem 4 - 10 cm long, 4 - 10 mm thick; white, pale brownish; with finely fibrous
Stem Shapes
Cylindrical
Stem Surfaces
Scaly
Stem Cross Sections
Hollow or cottony hollow
Flesh
Whitish to watery brownish; unchanging when sliced
The weeping widow grows in grassy fields, lawns, and parks, and can occasionally be found in the forest. It feeds on detritus like decomposing plant matter and dung.
Distribution Area of Weeping widow
North America,Europe,Central America,northern Asia,New Zealand
Hunting Values of Weeping widow
Cannot be stored for long, cook immediately after harvesting.
Uses of Weeping widow
Weeping widow is a mushroom species known for its conditional edibility. It can be consumed but requires careful preparation to avoid gastrointestinal discomfort. Its practical value lies in its culinary use during specific seasons when it is available. While not widely popular due to the necessary precautions, it still holds interest for foragers and mycophiles who are knowledgeable about safe consumption practices. Collectors should always ensure proper identification and preparation to mitigate health risks.
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Is Weeping widow Toxic?
The weeping widow should be treated with caution, or best avoided completely. While it was once considered safe, many authorities now agree that this determination should be revised, due to several reported cases of poisoning that included mild gastric upset such as stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Similar Species to Weeping widow
Unlocking the Secrets of Identifying Many Types of Mushroom
Master the Art of Distinguishing Mushroom Varieties with Expert Tips.
How to Differentiate Between Mower's mushroom and Weeping widow?
Weeping widow: Has a distinctly radially fibrillose cap.
Mower's mushroom: Cap typically possesses a smooth texture.
Tips for Finding Weeping widow
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When is the Best Time to Find Weeping widow
Search for weeping widow during late summer to fall. These mushrooms prefer the cooler and wetter days following summer's peak. Morning forays after rainy days increase the chances of finding them.
What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Weeping widow
Prefers rich, well-drained, and possibly disturbed soil.
What are Some Tips for Finding Weeping widow
Focus on open grasslands and areas with disturbed soil when seeking weeping widow.
Check the edges of paths and clearings in woods for weeping widow's presence.
Inspect grassy verges along roadsides and lanes that receive ample sunlight.
Observe for their distinctive gilled characteristics among low vegetation.
Gently explore the base of grass tufts where weeping widow may be concealed.
How to Clean and Preserve Weeping widow
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How to Clean Weeping widow
To clean weeping widow, gently brush off any dirt using a soft brush. If necessary, briefly rinse under cool water and immediately pat dry with a paper towel. Avoid soaking them, as they can absorb water and become soggy.
Tips on Dry Preservation of Weeping widow
Drying Methods
Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying
Drying Duration
6 - 12 months
Store in a dark, cool place with low humidity and in an airtight container.
Dehydrator drying: Ensures consistent airflow and temperature, ideal for even drying.
Oven drying: Set at a low temperature with door slightly open to allow moisture escape.
Air drying: Spread out in a well-ventilated, dry area away from direct sunlight.
Tips on Freezing Preservation of Weeping widow
Freezing Methods
Blanching Before Freezing
Freezing Duration
10 - 12 months
Blanching before freezing: Deactivates enzymes, maintains quality.
Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Weeping widow
Refrigerating Methods
Paper Bag Storage, Cardboard Box Storage, Perforated Plastic Bag Storage, Cloth Wrapping
Temperature
2 - 4 ℃
Refrigerating Humidity
90 - 95 %
Refrigerating Duration
5 - 7 days
Paper Bag Storage: Store in paper bags to absorb excess moisture and allow air circulation.
Cardboard Box Storage: Place mushrooms between layers of cardboard to regulate humidity and prevent soggy texture.
Perforated Plastic Bag Storage: Use perforated bags to balance moisture retention and airflow, preventing mold growth.
Cloth Wrapping: Wrap mushrooms in a damp cloth to maintain hydration without excess moisture, preserving freshness.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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