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Western deer mushroom

Pluteus exilis

A species of Pluteus

The western deer mushroom was discovered, described, and classified not long ago. Its habitat is restricted to the Pacific Northwest of North America, but reportedly, there's a variety in certain oak forests in Austria. Due to the lack of information, the edibility of the western deer mushroom is still unknown.

Cap Diameter:

3.5 - 7 cm

General Info About Western deer mushroom

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Attributes of Western deer mushroom

Cap Diameter

3.5 - 7 cm

Cap

Cap 3.5 - 7 cm across; bell-shaped; brownish

Gills

Free; close; white, pink

Spore Print Color

Pinkish-brown

Body Color

Brown

Flesh Bruises

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

Growth Form

Solitary, Scattered, Gregarious

Nutrient Gathering

Saprophytic

You can find Western deer mushroom by these plants:

Coast live oak

How to Identify Western deer mushroom

Fruiting Body Immature Fruiting Body Cap

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Habitat of Western deer mushroom

The western deer mushroom is a woodland mushroom. It feeds on decomposing organic material and it's commonly found growing on deadwood including logs, stumps, and branches.

Uses of Western deer mushroom

Western deer mushroom is recognized as an edible mushroom, offering a foraging option during its growing season. Its practical applications are primarily culinary, and it can be a valuable addition to dishes when properly identified and prepared. While western deer mushroom is not among the most popular edible mushrooms, it still holds collection value for enthusiasts. As with any wild mushroom, caution is advised to ensure correct identification to avoid confusion with potentially harmful species.

Scientific Classification of Western deer mushroom

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Gilled fungi

Family

Pluteaceae mushrooms

Genus

Pluteus

Similar Species to Western deer mushroom

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Tips for Finding Western deer mushroom

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When is the Best Time to Find Western deer mushroom

Search for western deer mushroom after a period of rainy or wet weather, followed by warm and humid conditions. Typically found in late spring through to early fall when the soil is moist and temperatures are mild.

What are Some Tips for Finding Western deer mushroom

Search in areas with a high presence of decaying wood, such as heaps of branches and logs.
Investigate shady, forested areas with moist conditions, which create a conducive environment for western deer mushroom.
Look for solitary mushrooms or clusters on or around decomposed wood rather than in open soil.
Carefully move aside leaf litter and other forest floor debris that might conceal western deer mushroom.
Scan for small mushrooms, as western deer mushroom might be easy to miss due to its size.

How to Clean and Preserve Western deer mushroom

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How to Clean Western deer mushroom

To clean western deer mushroom, gently remove any debris with a soft brush and wipe the surface with a damp cloth. Avoid soaking as it may cause absorption and affect the texture. Handle with care to preserve the integrity of the mushroom's structure.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Western deer mushroom

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying

Drying Duration

6 - 12 months

Store in a cool, dark place, with low humidity and good ventilation to prevent moisture buildup.

Dehydrator drying: Best for low-water content, maintaining quality with consistent heat and airflow.

Oven drying: Use low temperature to gently remove moisture without cooking; good for quicker drying.

Air drying: Natural method, slower but effective; ideal for delicate mushrooms in a dry environment.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of Western deer mushroom

Freezing Methods

Blanching Before Freezing

Freezing Duration

10 - 12 months

Blanching before freezing: This halts enzymes that cause spoilage.

Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Western deer mushroom

Refrigerating Methods

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

Temperature

1 - 4 ℃

Refrigerating Humidity

90 - 95 %

Refrigerating Duration

5 - 7 days

Paper Bag Storage: Allows for airflow and moisture absorption, preventing excess moisture buildup which can lead to spoilage.

Cloth Wrapping: A cloth can absorb excess moisture while the mushrooms retain some humidity, balancing dryness and dampness.

Container with Absorbent Lining: Absorbs moisture in a sealed container, reducing the risk of mold growth on mushrooms.

Perforated Plastic Bag Storage: Slight perforations allow gases to escape and maintain a humid environment without excess moisture accumulation.

Common Questions People Also Ask

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