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The Silky Pinkgill (Entoloma sericeum) is a common grassland mushroom known for its silky cap and pink gills. It is often found in meadows, pastures, and lawns. While generally considered edible, caution is advised due to potential confusion with toxic look-alikes.
How to Identify
- Cap
- Silky, smooth, and light-colored (white, gray, or tan). Convex to flattened, often with a central bump (umbo).
- Gills
- Pink, closely spaced, and adnate to slightly decurrent.
- Stem
- Cylindrical, smooth, and the same color as the cap or slightly lighter.
- Flesh
- White to pale pink, thin.
- Fruiting body
- Small to medium-sized mushroom with a silky cap and pink gills.
- Habitat
- Grasslands, meadows, and lawns.
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: Silky, smooth
- Growth Form: Solitary or scattered
- Spore Print: Pink
- Body color: White, gray, or tan
- Odor: Mild, fungal
- Flesh bruises: Does not typically bruise
- Height: 3-8 cm
- Cap Diameter: 2-6 cm
- Nutrient gathering: Saprophytic
Safe
Mild ToxicityWhile Entoloma sericeum is generally considered edible, it can be easily confused with other toxic Entoloma species. It is crucial to positively identify the mushroom before consumption. Some Entoloma species contain toxins that can cause gastrointestinal distress.
Quick Check
- Odor: Mild, fungal
- Fruiting: Late spring to autumn
- Substrate: Grasslands, meadows, lawns
Where to Find
Habitat
Grasslands, meadows, and pastures
Season
Late spring to autumn
Finding Tips
Visual Identification
Look for mushrooms with a silky, light-colored cap and pink gills in grassy areas.
Optimal Conditions
Check meadows and pastures after rainfall, as this encourages fruiting.
Similar Species
Other Entoloma species
Entoloma
Also known as: None
Some Clitocybe species
Clitocybe
Also known as: None
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Basidiomycota
- Class
- Agaricomycetes
- Order
- Agaricales
- Family
- Entolomataceae
- Genus
- Entoloma
Storage Information
- Max Temperature: -18°C
- Freezing duration: 3-6 months
- Min Temperature: 2°C
- Refrigeration: 1-2 days
How to Clean
Gently brush off any dirt or debris from the cap and stem. Avoid washing unless necessary, as they can absorb water and become soggy.
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