White Chanterelle

Description

Cantharellus subalbidus, commonly known as the White Chanterelle, is a highly prized edible mushroom native to western North America. It is characterized by its creamy white to pale yellow coloration, funnel-shaped cap, and blunt, gill-like ridges (false gills) that run down the stem. Unlike many other chanterelles, its flesh does not typically bruise or stain significantly. It is sought after for its firm texture and mild, fruity aroma.

How to Identify

Cap

The cap is 3-15 cm (1.2-6 inches) in diameter, convex when young, becoming broadly convex to depressed, and eventually deeply funnel-shaped or vase-shaped with an irregular, wavy margin. The surface is smooth to finely velvety, dry, and creamy white to pale yellowish, sometimes developing ochraceous tones with age or in direct sunlight. The margin is often inrolled when young, becoming wavy and lobed.

Gills

Instead of true gills, Cantharellus subalbidus possesses blunt, fold-like ridges (false gills) that are decurrent (running down the stem). These ridges are typically the same color as the cap or slightly paler, often forking and anastomosing (connecting) irregularly. They are not easily separated from the cap flesh.

Stem

The stem is 3-10 cm (1.2-4 inches) long and 1-3 cm (0.4-1.2 inches) thick, solid, tapering downwards or sometimes equal, and often curved. It is typically the same color as the cap or slightly paler, smooth, and continuous with the cap. The base is often slightly swollen.

Flesh

The flesh is thick, firm, brittle, and white to pale cream. It does not typically change color when cut or bruised, though some slight yellowing may occur. It has a mild, pleasant, often fruity aroma, sometimes described as apricot-like, and a mild taste.

Fruiting body

The fruiting body is typically creamy white to pale yellow, becoming more yellowish with age or handling. It has a distinctive funnel or vase shape.

Habitat

Cantharellus subalbidus is mycorrhizal, forming symbiotic relationships with conifers, primarily Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) and Western Hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla). It grows terrestrially, often scattered or in groups, in coniferous and mixed coniferous-deciduous forests.

Key Facts

• Cap surfaces: Smooth to finely velvety, dry
• Growth Form: Scattered or in groups
• Spore Print: White to pale cream
• Body color: Creamy white to pale yellow
• Odor: Mild, fruity (apricot-like)
• Flesh bruises: Does not typically bruise or stain
• Height: 3-10 cm (1.2-4 inches)
• Cap Diameter: 3-15 cm (1.2-6 inches)
• Nutrient gathering: Mycorrhizal

Quick Check

• Odor: Mild, fruity (apricot-like)
• Fruiting: Late summer to fall
• Substrate: Terrestrial, in coniferous or mixed forests

Where to Find

Finding Tips

Similar Species

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Basidiomycota

Class

Agaricomycetes

Order

Cantharellales

Family

Cantharellaceae

Genus

Cantharellus

Storage Information

• Max Temperature: 4°C
• Freezing duration: 6-12 months
• Min Temperature: 0°C
• Refrigeration: 5-7 days

How to Clean

Gently brush off any dirt or debris with a soft brush or damp cloth. Avoid washing under running water if possible, as they can absorb water and become soggy. If necessary, a quick rinse and immediate drying are acceptable. Trim off any damaged or insect-ridden parts.

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