A species of Turbinellus, Also known as Woolly false chanterelle, Scaly vase
The woolly chanterelle, which looks only vaguely similar to its famed, edible chanterelle cousins, is vase-shaped and has large, pale folds and wrinkles on its underside (as opposed to having gills, like those of more sought-after chanterelles). Woolly chanterelles can cause upset stomach, vomiting, and diarrhea in some who eat them, while leaving others completely unaffected. Needless to say, the species is not considered a "choice edible".
Cap Diameter:
5 - 15 cm
Odor:
Not distinctive; mildly mushroomy.
In This Article
Attributes
Toxicity and Edibility
Similar Species
Tips for Finding
Clean and Preserve
Common Questions
General Info About Woolly chanterelle
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Attributes of Woolly chanterelle
Cap Diameter
5 - 15 cm
Height
10 - 16 cm
Cap
Cap 5 - 15 cm across; vase-like; bright orange, orange-red; surface smooth, finely scaly
Cap Surfaces
Fibrillose-scaly
Gills
Decurrent; pale yellow to cream
Stem
Stem 8 - 16 cm long, 3.5 - 5 cm thick; vase-shaped; cream, yellow-orange tinges
Stem Shapes
Tapering
Stem Surfaces
Smooth
Flesh
Thick; fibrous; white; turn brown when cut or bruised
Ring
Ringless
Spore Print Color
Ocher-brown, yellowish
Odor
Not distinctive; mildly mushroomy.
Body Color
Brown
Yellow
Orange
Cream
Flesh Bruises
The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.
The woolly chanterelle is commonly found in coniferous forests but sometimes appears in mixed woods as well. Mushrooms of this symbiotic fungus grow on the ground near the roots of the host tree, with which essential nutrients are exchanged.
Distribution Area of Woolly chanterelle
North America,Asia
Hunting Values of Woolly chanterelle
Its edibility is debated. Some people reported gastrointestinal discomfort after consumption, but it is traditionally eaten in certain areas (Mexico).
Uses of Woolly chanterelle
Woolly chanterelle is a mushroom of questionable edibility, indicating that consumption could pose health risks. It may hold potential for culinary use, but it requires careful identification and preparation due to its uncertain safety profile. The popularity and collection value of woolly chanterelle are limited by these concerns, and its availability is typically seasonal. If considering woolly chanterelle for consumption, one must proceed with extreme caution and consult knowledgeable sources to mitigate the inherent dangers.
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Is Woolly chanterelle Toxic?
The woolly chanterelle is considered a mildly poisonous mushroom. Although it's regularly marketed in Mexico and India, certain authorities suggest that these subspecies differs from those found in the Pacific Northwest of North America. The North American species is reported to cause gastrointestinal upsets.
Similar Species to Woolly chanterelle
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How to Differentiate Between Turbinellus kauffmanii and Woolly chanterelle?
Woolly chanterelle: Has small, fine scales on its cap.
Turbinellus kauffmanii: Features large, woolly scales on its cap.
Tips for Finding Woolly chanterelle
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When is the Best Time to Find Woolly chanterelle
Search for woolly chanterelle from late summer to fall when the weather is moist and the temperature is mild. Look after rainy days but before heavy frosts set in.
What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Woolly chanterelle
Well-drained soil with rich organic matter.
What are Some Tips for Finding Woolly chanterelle
Search around the base of coniferous trees like pines, spruces, firs, and hemlocks.
Look for woolly chanterelle in areas with a mixture of hardwoods and conifers, as woolly chanterelle can grow near both types.
Explore woodland areas after a rain, as increased moisture often encourages fungal growth.
Inspect the forest floor for the distinctively shaped fruiting bodies of woolly chanterelle; these usually have irregular folds.
Check for woolly chanterelle in well-draining soil areas, particularly where the soil is rich in organic debris.
How to Clean and Preserve Woolly chanterelle
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How to Clean Woolly chanterelle
To clean woolly chanterelle, gently brush off any debris from the cap and stem. Use a damp cloth or soft brush to dislodge any dirt, taking care not to damage the delicate scales. Avoid soaking as it may cause the white flesh to absorb water, possibly altering its texture.
Tips on Dry Preservation of Woolly chanterelle
Drying Methods
Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying
Drying Duration
6 - 12 months
Store in airtight containers, cool, dark, dry place with low humidity.