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Ground Pholiota

Pholiota terrestris

A species of Scalycaps

The ground Pholiota (Pholiota terrestris) has a stem that stretches further in height than the cap does in width. Unlike other mushrooms, they flourish in disturbed areas where other mushrooms would struggle, like the compacted dirt of walking paths and harsh roadside conditions.

Cap Diameter:

2 - 8 cm

Odor:

Mildly earthy, generally not distinctive.

General Info About Ground Pholiota

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Attributes of Ground Pholiota

Cap Diameter

2 - 8 cm

Height

4 - 10 cm

Cap

Cap 2 - 8 cm; convex, bell-shaped, flat; brown; margin usually finely hairy or scaly

Cap Shape

Convex, Bell-shaped, Flat, Central Bump

Cap Surfaces

Fibrillose-scaly, Slimy or slightly sticky

Gills

Adnexed; crowded; pale, yellowi, brown

Gill Attachment

Attached

Stem

Stem 3 - 8 cm long, up to 1 cm thick; whitish or pale tan, finely hairy and whitish or yellowish near the apex

Stem Shapes

Cylindrical

Stem Surfaces

Scaly

Flesh

Whitish, pale yellowish, or brownish

Ring

With Ring Zone

Spore Print Color

Brown

Odor

Mildly earthy, generally not distinctive.

Body Color

Brown

Yellow

Red

Bronze

Gray

White

Flesh Bruises

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

Growth Form

Clustered, Gregarious

Nutrient Gathering

Saprophytic

Substrate

On soil, Dead Woods

Occurence Habitats

Disturbed Lands

Species Status

Widely distributed and common

Endangered Species

How to Identify Ground Pholiota

Fruiting Body Immature Fruiting Body Cap

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Habitat of Ground Pholiota

The ground Pholiota can be found in disturbed areas, along roads and paths, in lawns and gardens. It grows in soil, in lignin-rich debris, and occasionally on visible rotting wood on the ground.

Hunting Values of Ground Pholiota

Edibility is debated. Some people consider it edible, while others say that species of this genus might cause gastrointestinal discomfort.

Uses of Ground Pholiota

Ground Pholiota is categorized as 'Questionable Edible,' indicating potential risks if consumed. While it may be found seasonally in some regions, its use as a food source is not widespread due to the uncertainty surrounding its edibility. Collectors should exercise caution and avoid ingestion unless identified and deemed safe by mycology experts. Its ambiguous status means ground Pholiota is rarely featured in culinary or medicinal practices, underscoring the importance of prioritizing safety when encountering this species.

Scientific Classification of Ground Pholiota

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Gilled fungi

Family

Strophariaceae

Genus

Scalycaps

Similar Species to Ground Pholiota

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Shaggy scalycap

Similar Species

Ground Pholiota

How to Differentiate Between Shaggy scalycap and Ground Pholiota?

Ground Pholiota: Smooth to slightly fibrillose.

Shaggy scalycap: Features prominently shaggy scales.

Ground Pholiota: Prefers growing on the ground.

Shaggy scalycap: Commonly found growing on wood.

Tips for Finding Ground Pholiota

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When is the Best Time to Find Ground Pholiota

Search for ground Pholiota during late summer to mid-fall, when the air is cool and moist. Ideal times are after a period of rainfall, which encourages growth.

What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Ground Pholiota

Rich, disturbed, frequently well-trodden soils.

What are Some Tips for Finding Ground Pholiota

Search along trails, footpaths, and other areas of soil compaction where ground Pholiota is likely to grow in clusters.
Keep an eye on disturbed ground areas, such as construction sites, dirt roads, or landscaping regions prone to soil disruption.
Examine ground near decomposing wood, as ground Pholiota may occasionally grow from wood that is not readily visible.
Investigate open grassy spaces, particularly those that are well-maintained or experience high foot traffic.
Repeat visits to the same location can be beneficial, as ground Pholiota tends to reappear in previously successful spots.

How to Clean and Preserve Ground Pholiota

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How to Clean Ground Pholiota

To clean ground Pholiota, gently remove any debris or soil using a soft brush, taking care not to apply too much pressure that may damage the delicate fruiting body. Avoid soaking, as this may remove natural flavors and aromas or cause the mushrooms to become waterlogged.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Ground Pholiota

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying

Drying Duration

6 - 12 months

Store in a cool, dark place; airtight containers; control humidity below 15%; promote stable temperatures.

Dehydrator drying: Reduces moisture content uniformly, ideal for high water content, maintains texture.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of Ground Pholiota

Freezing Methods

Blanching Before Freezing

Freezing Duration

10 - 12 months

Blanching before freezing: Blanch for 3-4 minutes to preserve texture, then cool and freeze.

Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Ground Pholiota

Refrigerating Methods

Paper Bag Storage, Perforated Plastic Bag Storage, Container with Absorbent Lining

Temperature

0 - 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; prevents spoilage from humidity.

Perforated Plastic Bag Storage: Use perforated plastic bags that provide some humidity while allowing airflow; balances moisture retention and drying.

Container with Absorbent Lining: Place in a container with paper towels between layers to absorb moisture; keeps mushrooms dry and firm.

Common Questions People Also Ask

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Where does ground Pholiota grow?