Willow shield mushrooms grow directly from the surface of rotting hardwood trees, stumps, and fallen branches. They give off a slight radish-like scent. The common name Willow shield reflects the scientific name; Pluteus means "protective fence" or "shield" while salicinus references the Salix (willow) genus.
Cap Diameter:
3 - 5 cm
Odor:
Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.
In This Article
Attributes
Similar Species
Tips for Finding
Clean and Preserve
Common Questions
General Info About Willow shield
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Attributes of Willow shield
Cap Diameter
3 - 5 cm
Height
4 - 8 cm
Cap
Cap 2 - 8 cm across; convex to broadly convex to plane; silver-gray to brownish-gray; surface smooth, with tiny scales
Cap Shape
Convex, Central Bump
Cap Surfaces
Smooth
Gills
Free; crowded; white to pink-flesh; turns grayish when bruised
Gill Attachment
Free
Stem
Stem 3 - 10 cm long, 2 - 6 mm thick; white, grayish-green to bluish-green; firm
Willow shield grows on decaying hardwood debris, such as stumps and branches, often found in forested areas with abundant willow.
Uses of Willow shield
Willow shield is recognized for its hallucinogenic properties due to psychoactive compounds it contains. It's not widely used in culinary or medicinal practices, primarily because of legal and safety concerns. The collection of willow shield is often for academic research or by those seeking its psychoactive effects, despite potential legal repercussions and health risks. Users should be aware that consuming willow shield can pose significant dangers and is illegal in many jurisdictions.
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Tips for Finding Willow shield
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When is the Best Time to Find Willow shield
Search for willow shield during warm, humid periods following rainfall. Late spring to early fall provides the best chance of finding them, especially after a wet weather period.
What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Willow shield
Rich in organic material, moist.
What are Some Tips for Finding Willow shield
Search around fallen branches and stumps in hardwood forests, particularly near willow trees.
Look for decomposing wood or woody debris that seems to be rotting, as willow shield tends to grow in such environments.
Inspect the bases of trees and areas with a lot of leaf litter or fallen tree parts.
Check for small groups or solitary growths rather than large clusters of mushrooms.
How to Clean and Preserve Willow shield
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How to Clean Willow shield
For willow shield, gently clean using a shower, not a bath. Place them in a colander and rinse quickly under water to dislodge dirt. Afterwards, pat willow shield dry immediately to maintain their integrity.
To clean willow shield, opt for a gentle approach. Use a soft brush to carefully remove debris. For a deeper clean, briefly rinse under running water and immediately pat dry. Never soak mushrooms or leave wet.
Tips on Dry Preservation of Willow shield
Drying Methods
Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying
Drying Duration
6 - 12 months
Store in an airtight container, in a cool, dark, and dry place with stable temperature.
Dehydrator drying: Ensures steady airflow and temperature, preserving nutrients and minimizing spoilage risks.
Oven drying: Useful when a dehydrator is not available, set to a low temperature to avoid cooking.
Air drying: Eco-friendly, use in dry environments with good air circulation to prevent mold growth.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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