How to identify Trooping Funnel

To correctly identify Trooping Funnel (Clitocybe gibba), 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 typically funnel-shaped, ranging from 4 to 12 cm in diameter. The color can vary from pale buff to grayish-brown. The surface is smooth and dry.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   The gills are crowded, decurrent (running down the stem), and whitish to pale buff in color.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   The stem is cylindrical, smooth, and typically the same color as the cap or slightly lighter. It ranges from 4 to 8 cm in length and 0.5 to 1.5 cm in thickness.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is thin and whitish, with a mild, sometimes slightly acidic odor.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   The fruiting body is medium to large in size, with a distinctive funnel shape.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Found in troops or fairy rings in grassy areas, meadows, and pastures.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Smooth, dry

Growth Form

Gregarious, forming troops or fairy rings

Spore Print

White to pale pink

Body color

Pale buff to grayish-brown

Odor

Mild, sometimes slightly acidic

Flesh bruises

Does not typically bruise

Height

4-8 cm

Cap Diameter

4-12 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Decurrent
• Stem shape: Cylindrical
• Stem surface: Smooth
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: Solid

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