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Common cavalier

Melanoleuca polioleuca

A species of Cavaliers

A saprobic fungus, the common cavalier(Melanoleuca polioleuca) consumes organic compounds, like rotting wood. It appears in deciduous woodlands and conifers throughout Europe and North America. However, it is also found in local parks and mowed lawns. Its scientific name is based on the Ancient Greek words for black, gray, and white, which describe its coloring.

Cap Diameter:

3 - 9 cm

Odor:

Faintly mealy, not particularly distinctive.

General Info About Common cavalier

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Attributes of Common cavalier

Cap Diameter

3 - 9 cm

Height

8 - 20 cm

Cap

Cap 4 - 8 cm across; convex to flat; dark grey-brown; surface smooth

Cap Shape

Convex, Flat, Depressed, Central Bump

Cap Surfaces

Smooth, Slimy or slightly sticky

Gills

Sinuate; white to creamy-grey

Gill Attachment

Notched

Stem

Stem 4 - 10 cm long, 5 - 10 mm thick; white, grey-brown; with fibrils

Stem Shapes

Club Shaped

Stem Surfaces

Fibrillose

Flesh

White, chraceous to ochre-brown

Ring

Ringless

Spore Print Color

Very pale cream

Odor

Faintly mealy, not particularly distinctive.

Body Color

Brown

Gray

White

Flesh Bruises

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

Growth Form

Scattered, Gregarious

Nutrient Gathering

Saprophytic

Substrate

On soil, Leaf or Needle Litter

You can find Common cavalier by these plants:

Oaks, Pines, Spruces

Occurence Habitats

Deciduous Woodland, Mixed Woodland

Species Status

Widespread and fairly common

Endangered Species

How to Identify Common cavalier

Fruiting Body Cap Gills

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Habitat of Common cavalier

Leaf litter in all kinds of woods and forests and near trees in lawns and parks

Hunting Values of Common cavalier

Dangerous, as there are toxic species which are difficult to distinguish from it.

Uses of Common cavalier

Common cavalier is recognized for its culinary potential, yet it comes with significant risks. It's not widely popular due to the danger it poses if not properly identified or prepared. Its availability peaks in certain seasons, which attracts foragers who are well-versed in mushroom identification. Consumption of common cavalier without expert knowledge can be hazardous, thus caution is advised. Always consult a mycologist before use to mitigate safety concerns.

Scientific Classification of Common cavalier

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Gilled fungi

Family

Pale-spore mushrooms

Genus

Cavaliers

Similar Species to Common cavalier

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Silky pinkgill

Similar Species

Common cavalier

How to Differentiate Between Silky pinkgill and Common cavalier?

Common cavalier: Gills remain pale.

Silky pinkgill: Gills become pinkish-brown with age.

Common cavalier: Spore print is white to cream.

Silky pinkgill: Spore print is brownish pink.

Tips for Finding Common cavalier

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When is the Best Time to Find Common cavalier

Search for common cavalier in late summer to autumn when the weather starts to cool. Rainfall or moist conditions a few days prior can increase your chances of finding them.

What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Common cavalier

Prefers well-drained and rich in organic material.

What are Some Tips for Finding Common cavalier

Search around deciduous and coniferous trees where leaf litter accumulates.
Inspect grassy clearings or edges of woods and parks.
Look for common cavalier in the vicinity of well-established trees, especially after rainfall.
Check soil that appears dark and fertile, often found under a layer of decomposing leaves.

How to Clean and Preserve Common cavalier

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How to Clean Common cavalier

For 'common cavalier', wipe the cap and stem gently with a soft brush or damp cloth to remove debris. If necessary, trim the base of the stem. Handle carefully to keep the delicate structure intact.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Common cavalier

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying

Drying Duration

12 - 24 months

Optimal conditions: Store in cool, dark, dry place with airtight containers.

Dehydrator drying: Most effective at removing moisture quickly and evenly, preserving quality.

Oven drying: Useful for controlled low heat, reducing water content steadily.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of Common cavalier

Freezing Methods

Blanching Before Freezing

Freezing Duration

10 - 12 months

Blanching before freezing: Improves texture retention, reduces enzyme activity.

Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Common cavalier

Refrigerating Methods

Paper Bag Storage, Plastic Wrap Storage, Crisper Drawer Storage

Temperature

1 - 4 ℃

Refrigerating Humidity

90 - 95 %

Refrigerating Duration

3 - 7 days

Paper Bag Storage: Store in paper bags to absorb moisture and allow air circulation, preventing spoilage.

Plastic Wrap Storage: Wrap loosely in perforated plastic to keep humidity consistent and prevent moisture build-up.

Crisper Drawer Storage: Place in the crisper drawer of the fridge for an environment with adjustable humidity control.

Common Questions People Also Ask

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