How to identify Dwarf Honey Mushroom

To correctly identify Dwarf Honey Mushroom (Armillaria tabescens), check each of these features in order. Misidentification is the most common cause of mushroom poisoning, so cross-reference multiple sources.

Step-by-step identification

1. 1

   Cap

   Shape, color, surface texture, and diameter.

   The cap is convex to flattened, often with a central bump (umbo). It is typically dry and smooth, with a color ranging from tan to brown. The cap surface may have small scales or fibrils.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   The gills are attached to the stem (adnate to decurrent), closely spaced, and white to cream-colored. They may develop brownish spots with age.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   The stem is slender, cylindrical, and tapers slightly towards the base. It is typically dry and smooth, with a color similar to the cap or slightly lighter. A distinctive feature is the absence of a ring (annulus).

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is white to cream-colored and does not change color when bruised.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   The fruiting body of Armillaria tabescens is a mushroom with a cap and stem. It typically grows in clusters.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Armillaria tabescens is typically found growing on decaying wood, such as logs, stumps, and roots of hardwood trees. It often grows in clusters and can be found in forests and woodlands.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Dry, smooth, may have small scales or fibrils

Growth Form

Clustered

Spore Print

White

Body color

Tan to brown

Odor

Mild and mushroomy

Flesh bruises

Does not change color

Height

3-10 cm

Cap Diameter

2-8 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Adnate to decurrent
• Stem shape: Cylindrical, tapering towards the base
• Stem surface: Dry, smooth
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: Solid

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