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Macrocybe titans

A species of Macrocybe

A true giant, this impressive mushroom surely justifies its name 'titans'. The macrocybe titans is probably the largest mushroom of North America, with a cap that can grow up to 1 m in diameter. Originally found in the tropics and subtropics of the Americas, this mushroom has found its way to other parts of North America, probably via plant container soil.

Cap Diameter:

20 - 100 cm

Odor:

Mildly mushroomy, not particularly distinctive.

General Info About Macrocybe titans

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Attributes of Macrocybe titans

Cap Diameter

20 - 100 cm

Height

30 - 50 cm

Cap

Cap 20 - 100 cm across; convex, flat to weakly depressed; yellowish buff, whiter; surface smooth

Cap Shape

Convex, Flat

Cap Surfaces

Smooth

Gills

Attached; crowded; white to pale buff

Gill Attachment

Attached

Stem

Stem 15 - 25 cm long, 8 - 14 cm thick; yellowish buff, whiter; smooth

Stem Shapes

Cylindrical

Stem Surfaces

Scaly

Flesh

Firm; white; not changing on exposure

Ring

Ringless

Spore Print Color

Creamy white

Odor

Mildly mushroomy, not particularly distinctive.

Body Color

Brown

Yellow

White

Flesh Bruises

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

Growth Form

Solitary, Gregarious

Nutrient Gathering

Saprophytic

Substrate

On soil

Occurence Habitats

Disturbed Lands, Meadows

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Habitat of Macrocybe titans

Macrocybe titans typically thrives in open grassy or sandy terrains, and areas where the soil has been disturbed by landscaping activities.

Distribution Area of Macrocybe titans

North America (Florida),Central and South America

Uses of Macrocybe titans

Macrocybe titans is a sought-after edible mushroom, prized for its culinary versatility. It's particularly popular in tropical regions where it naturally occurs, often harvested during the rainy season. Chefs and food enthusiasts value macrocybe titans for its substantial size and texture, which lends itself well to various dishes. While macrocybe titans is considered safe to eat, it's crucial to ensure proper identification and preparation to avoid confusion with toxic look-alikes. Its collection can be a rewarding experience for foragers.

Scientific Classification of Macrocybe titans

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Gilled fungi

Family

Pale-spore mushrooms

Genus

Macrocybe

Similar Species to Macrocybe titans

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Large white Leucopaxallus

Similar Species

Macrocybe titans

How to Differentiate Between Large white Leucopaxallus and Macrocybe titans?

Macrocybe titans: Cap is extremely large, often reaching up to 100 cm in diameter.

Large white Leucopaxallus: Cap is noticeably smaller, typically up to 20 cm in diameter.

Macrocybe titans: Found in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in Central and South America, as well as southern parts of North America.

Large white Leucopaxallus: More widely distributed, found in many temperate regions worldwide, including North America, Europe, and Australia.

Tips for Finding Macrocybe titans

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When is the Best Time to Find Macrocybe titans

Seek macrocybe titans in the warmer, wet months, typically just after heavy rains. Ideal temperatures range between 75°F (24°C) to 95°F (35°C). Start searching in the morning when humidity is high and the ground is still moist.

What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Macrocybe titans

Prefers rich and disturbed soils.

What are Some Tips for Finding Macrocybe titans

Inspect open fields, grassy areas, and sandy environments where the ground appears disrupted.
Look for macrocybe titans in places that have undergone recent landscaping, as they may grow more abundantly the following year.
Search around the remnants of disturbed earth or near landscaping projects, even if the disturbance occurred in the previous year.
Investigate any loose clusters of mushrooms, as macrocybe titans often grows gregariously.
Be attentive to ground that may have been influenced by ant activity, as macrocybe titans can also emerge in such areas.

How to Clean and Preserve Macrocybe titans

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How to Clean Macrocybe titans

Clean macrocybe titans by filling a large bowl with water and tossing the mushrooms briefly until dirt settles. Remove, then pat dry. For grooved varieties, keep shower short, or use a colander with running water to wash, then pat dry to preserve integrity.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Macrocybe titans

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying

Drying Duration

12 - 24 months

Store in a cool, dark, dry place, with low humidity and proper ventilation.

Dehydrator drying: Reliable for controlling temperature and airflow, resulting in consistent drying rates.

Oven drying: Good for quick removal of moisture with temperature regulation and consistent heat.

Air drying: Natural method, best utilized in dry, warm climates with good air circulation.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of Macrocybe titans

Freezing Methods

Blanching Before Freezing

Freezing Duration

10 - 12 months

Blanching before freezing: Inactivates enzymes, maintains texture.

Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Macrocybe titans

Refrigerating Methods

Paper Bag Storage, Plastic Wrap Storage, Cloth Wrapping

Temperature

2 - 4 ℃

Refrigerating Humidity

85 - 95 %

Refrigerating Duration

7 - 10 days

Paper Bag Storage: Place mushrooms in paper bags to absorb excess moisture while allowing airflow, preventing spoilage due to dampness.

Plastic Wrap Storage: Encasing in punctured plastic helps retain humidity while preventing condensation and sogginess.

Cloth Wrapping: Wrap mushrooms in a clean, dry cloth to wick away moisture and maintain freshness without drying out.

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