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Cantharellus lateritius, commonly known as the smooth chanterelle, is a species of fungus in the Cantharellaceae family. It is characterized by its smooth cap surface, bright orange to yellow color, and forked gills that run down the stem. It is an edible mushroom, prized for its fruity aroma and delicate flavor.
How to Identify
- Cap
- The cap is smooth, convex to flat, and often develops a wavy or lobed margin. The color ranges from bright orange to yellow.
- Gills
- The gills are forked, decurrent (running down the stem), and the same color as the cap.
- Stem
- The stem is smooth, slender, and tapers towards the base. It is typically the same color as the cap or slightly lighter.
- Flesh
- The flesh is firm, white to pale yellow, and has a fruity aroma.
- Fruiting body
- The fruiting body is small to medium-sized, typically 3-8 cm in diameter and 4-10 cm in height.
- Habitat
- It grows in deciduous and coniferous forests, often near oak and beech trees. It is commonly found in the eastern United States during the summer and fall.
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: Smooth
- Growth Form: Mycorrhizal
- Spore Print: Pale yellow
- Body color: Orange to yellow
- Odor: Fruity
- Flesh bruises: Does not bruise
- Height: 4-10 cm
- Cap Diameter: 3-8 cm
- Nutrient gathering: Mycorrhizal
Safe
SafeCantharellus lateritius is considered an edible mushroom and is not known to be toxic.
Quick Check
- Odor: Fruity, apricot-like
- Fruiting: Solitary or in small groups
- Substrate: Soil, leaf litter
Where to Find
Eastern United States
Common in deciduous and coniferous forests, especially near oak and beech trees.
Finding Tips
Look for Fruiting Bodies
Search in areas with moist soil and leaf litter, particularly after rainfall.
Check Under Trees
Focus your search around the base of oak and beech trees.
Similar Species
Golden Chanterelle
mushroom
Also known as: Girolle
False Chanterelle
mushroom
Also known as: Hygrophoropsis aurantiaca
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Basidiomycota
- Class
- Agaricomycetes
- Order
- Cantharellales
- Family
- Cantharellaceae
- Genus
- Cantharellus
Storage Information
- Max Temperature: 2
- Freezing duration: 3 months
- Min Temperature: -2
- Refrigeration: 5 days
How to Clean
Gently brush off any dirt or debris. Avoid soaking in water, as chanterelles can become waterlogged. A soft brush or damp cloth works best.
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