The coconut milkcap is yellow to pale white when young, but will change to a lilar color with age. It earned its name, Coconut milkcap, from its easily distinguishable coconut scent. It usually grows in close proximity to birch. When damaged, a latex-like substance oozes from the wound.
Cap Diameter:
2 - 6 cm
Odor:
Strong coconut-like fragrance.
In This Article
Attributes
Toxicity and Edibility
Similar Species
Tips for Finding
Clean and Preserve
Common Questions
General Info About Coconut milkcap
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Attributes of Coconut milkcap
Cap Diameter
2 - 6 cm
Height
3 - 7 cm
Cap
Cap 2 - 7 cm across; flat, vase-shaped; pinkish buff; finely roughened; margin inrolled
Cap Shape
Convex, Flat, Depressed
Cap Surfaces
Smooth, Fibrillose-scaly
Gills
Attached; close; whitish to yellowish; not bruising or discoloring
Gill Attachment
Decurrent
Stem
Stem 3 - 7 cm long, 8 - 15 mm thick; pinkish buff
Stem Shapes
Cylindrical
Stem Surfaces
Smooth
Stem Cross Sections
Hollow or cottony hollow
Flesh
Pale; not changing when sliced
Ring
Ringless
Spore Print Color
Cream
Odor
Strong coconut-like fragrance.
Body Color
Yellow
Pink
Flesh Bruises
The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.
Coconut milkcap prefer forests with broadleaf deciduous trees, frequently found under birches, and may also occur near alders.
Uses of Coconut milkcap
Coconut milkcap is an edible mushroom species valued for its culinary applications. It is not among the most popular mushrooms but can be a seasonal delight for foragers. While it may not have widespread recognition, those who collect coconut milkcap appreciate its unique flavor in various dishes. As with any wild mushroom, proper identification and preparation are crucial to ensure safety when consuming coconut milkcap.
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Is Coconut milkcap Toxic?
Coconut milkcap often inhabits temperate woodlands during late summer and autumn. Its intake can cause gastrointestinal distress such as nausea, vomiting, cramps, and diarrhea. Severe cases can lead to vision problems, movement disorders, and potential organ damage. Its distinguishing features are its covex cap, decurrent gills, and aniseed smell which could help foragers avoid ingestion.
Toxins type
Terpenoid
Type of poisoning
Gastrointestinal
Toxic Severity
Moderate toxicity
Incubation Period
0.5-4 hours
Poisoning Symptoms
Common symptoms include gastrointestinal distress, characterized by nausea, vomiting, cramps, and diarrhea.
In more severe cases, poisoning can lead to issues beyond the digestive system, such as vision problems, movement disorders like tremors or ataxia, and potential damage to vital organs like the liver and kidneys.
Similar Species to Coconut milkcap
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Master the Art of Distinguishing Mushroom Varieties with Expert Tips.
How to Differentiate Between Fenugreek milkcap and Coconut milkcap?
Coconut milkcap: Releases a strong anise or coconut-like aroma.
Fenugreek milkcap: Emits a faint, curry-like or fenugreek aroma.
Tips for Finding Coconut milkcap
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When is the Best Time to Find Coconut milkcap
Search for coconut milkcap from late summer to early fall after periods of rain. Moist soil and cooler temperatures around 50°F (10°C) to 65°F (18°C) during this time often signal the best chances to find coconut milkcap.
What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Coconut milkcap
Rich, moist, well-drained soils.
What are Some Tips for Finding Coconut milkcap
Search beneath or around birch trees, as coconut milkcap often reside in close association with these trees.
Look for mushrooms that are alone or in small groups, rather than in large clusters.
Inspect areas with well-drained, moist soil, which coconut milkcap tends to favor.
Scan for the distinctive characteristics of coconut milkcap, such as their smell or color to differentiate them from other species.
How to Clean and Preserve Coconut milkcap
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How to Clean Coconut milkcap
To clean coconut milkcap, quickly immerse in water, stirring gently to dislodge dirt. Remove promptly and blot dry. Avoid soaking to maintain integrity.
Tips on Dry Preservation of Coconut milkcap
Drying Methods
Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying
Drying Duration
6 - 12 months
Store in airtight containers, cool, dark place, low humidity, and away from direct sunlight.
Dehydrator drying: Consistent temperature control and air circulation, suitable for high water content mushrooms.
Oven drying: Low heat and door slightly open for air flow, suitable for quicker water removal.
Air drying: Natural process, requires dry, warm environment, good for small, thin-fleshed varieties.
Tips on Freezing Preservation of Coconut milkcap
Freezing Methods
Blanching Before Freezing
Freezing Duration
10 - 12 months
Blanching before freezing: Inactivates enzymes, preserves quality better than raw freezing.
Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Coconut milkcap
Refrigerating Methods
Paper Bag Storage, Perforated Plastic Bag Storage
Temperature
2 - 4 ℃
Refrigerating Humidity
90 - 95 %
Refrigerating Duration
3 - 7 days
Paper Bag Storage: Allows for some airflow and absorption of excess moisture, reducing spoilage risks.
Perforated Plastic Bag Storage: Small holes in the bag provide ventilation, balancing moisture and preventing mold growth.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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