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Cantharellus cibarius is a species of golden chanterelle mushroom in the genus Cantharellus. It is one of the most widely known and easily identifiable edible mushrooms, and is found in Europe, North America, and Asia.
How to Identify
- Cap
- The cap is convex to flat, and sometimes has a central depression. The surface is smooth and dry, and the color ranges from pale yellow to bright orange.
- Gills
- The gills are decurrent, meaning they run down the stem. They are blunt and forked, and are the same color as the cap.
- Stem
- The stem is 3–8 cm (1.2–3.1 in) long and 1–2 cm (0.4–0.8 in) thick. It is smooth and tapers downwards. The color is similar to the cap, but paler.
- Flesh
- The flesh is firm and white, with a fruity odor.
- Fruiting body
- The fruiting body is typically 3–10 cm (1.2–3.9 in) wide and tall, and is yellow to orange in color. It is fleshy and has a smooth cap with a wavy margin.
- Habitat
- Chanterelles are found in deciduous and coniferous forests, growing on the ground near trees. They are mycorrhizal, meaning they form a symbiotic relationship with the roots of trees.
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: Smooth
- Growth Form: Solitary or in groups
- Spore Print: Pale yellow
- Body color: Yellow to orange
- Odor: Fruity
- Flesh bruises: No bruising
- Height: 3–10 cm (1.2–3.9 in)
- Cap Diameter: 3–10 cm (1.2–3.9 in)
- Nutrient gathering: Mycorrhizal
Safe
SafeChanterelles are generally considered safe to eat, but can cause gastrointestinal upset in some people.
Quick Check
- Odor: Fruity
- Fruiting: Summer to fall
- Substrate: Ground
Where to Find
Europe
Found in deciduous and coniferous forests.
North America
Found in deciduous and coniferous forests.
Asia
Found in deciduous and coniferous forests.
Finding Tips
Look near trees
Chanterelles are mycorrhizal and grow near trees.
Check mossy areas
Chanterelles often grow in mossy areas.
Search after rain
Chanterelles fruit after rain.
Similar Species
False Chanterelle
Mushroom
Also known as: Hygrophoropsis aurantiaca
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Basidiomycota
- Class
- Agaricomycetes
- Order
- Cantharellales
- Family
- Cantharellaceae
- Genus
- Cantharellus
Storage Information
- Max Temperature: 20
- Freezing duration: 3 months
- Min Temperature: 2
- Refrigeration: 5 days
How to Clean
Clean chanterelles with a soft brush or cloth to remove dirt and debris. Avoid washing them unless necessary, as they can become waterlogged.
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