How to identify Lilac Brown Mushroom

To correctly identify Lilac Brown Mushroom (Entoloma sinuatum), 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 5-20 cm in diameter, convex to flattened, and often has an irregular shape. The color ranges from pale cream to tan or grayish-brown. The surface is smooth and dry.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   The gills are adnate to slightly decurrent, crowded, and initially whitish, turning pinkish as the spores mature. They are sinuate, meaning they have a wavy edge where they meet the stem.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   The stem is stout, 4-10 cm long and 1-3 cm thick, and is usually the same color as the cap or slightly lighter. It is solid and fibrous.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   Thick and white, with a mealy odor, especially when cut or bruised.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   Large and fleshy, with a substantial cap and stem.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Found in deciduous woods, particularly under oak and beech trees, during summer and autumn.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Smooth, dry

Growth Form

Solitary or in small groups

Spore Print

Pinkish

Body color

Pale cream to tan or grayish-brown

Odor

Mealy, rancid

Flesh bruises

No significant bruising

Height

4-10 cm

Cap Diameter

5-20 cm

Fruit body characteristics

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

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