How to identify Wood blewit

To correctly identify Wood blewit (Clitocybe nuda), 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 initially convex, later flattening out and sometimes developing a shallow depression. The color is typically lilac or purple when young, fading to tan or brownish with age. The surface is smooth and slightly greasy when moist.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   The gills are crowded, adnate to slightly decurrent, and lilac in color when young, fading to a pale tan or brownish. They are easily separable from the cap.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   The stem is stout, fibrous, and typically the same color as the cap or slightly paler. It measures 5 to 10 cm in length and 1 to 2 cm in diameter. The base of the stem often has a cottony or hairy texture.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is thick and has a lilac tint, especially in the cap. It has a mild, sweet odor and taste.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   The fruiting body of Clitocybe nuda is typically medium to large in size, with a cap diameter ranging from 5 to 15 cm. The overall appearance is fleshy and substantial.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Clitocybe nuda is found in both coniferous and deciduous woodlands, often in leaf litter or compost. It fruits in the fall and early winter.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Smooth, slightly greasy when moist

Growth Form

Saprophytic

Spore Print

Pinkish-buff

Body color

Lilac to purple, fading to tan or brownish

Odor

Mild, sweet

Flesh bruises

No significant bruising

Height

5-10 cm

Cap Diameter

5-15 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Adnate to slightly decurrent
• Stem shape: Cylindrical
• Stem surface: Fibrous
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: Solid

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