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Gymnopus dryophilus, commonly known as the oak-loving collybia, or russet toughshank, is a very common mushroom of the family Marasmiaceae. It is among the most common mushrooms to be found in temperate woodlands. Although very similar in appearance to several other species, it can usually be distinguished by its cap color, which ranges from tan to rusty brown, and the fact that it has a cartilaginous stem.
How to Identify
- Cap
- 2–7 cm in diameter, convex, flattening with age, smooth, dry, tan to rusty brown, often fading to buff when dry.
- Gills
- Adnate to adnexed, closely spaced, whitish to yellowish.
- Stem
- 3–8 cm long, 0.2–0.5 cm thick, slender, cartilaginous, color similar to cap or darker.
- Flesh
- Thin, pliant, and pale buff.
- Fruiting body
- The fruit body of Gymnopus dryophilus has a convex cap that flattens out with age, reaching diameters of 2–7 cm (0.8–2.8 in). The cap surface is smooth, dry, and has a color ranging from tan to rusty brown, often fading to buff when dry. The gills are adnate to adnexed, closely spaced, and whitish to yellowish. The stem is slender, cartilaginous, and has a color similar to the cap or darker. It measures 3–8 cm (1.2–3.1 in) long and 0.2–0.5 cm (0.08–0.2 in) thick.
- Habitat
- Found in temperate woodlands, often on decaying leaf litter or wood.
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: Smooth, dry
- Growth Form: Solitary to scattered
- Spore Print: White to pale yellowish
- Body color: Tan to rusty brown
- Odor: Mild, fungal
- Flesh bruises: Does not typically bruise
- Height: 3-8 cm
- Cap Diameter: 2-7 cm
- Nutrient gathering: Saprophytic
Safe
SafeGymnopus dryophilus is generally considered edible, but it is not highly regarded due to its small size and thin flesh. It is important to properly identify it to avoid confusion with toxic look-alikes.
Quick Check
- Odor: Mild and fungal.
- Fruiting: Spring to Fall
- Substrate: Decaying leaf litter or wood.
Where to Find
North America
Common in eastern North America, particularly in deciduous forests.
Europe
Widespread throughout Europe, often found in oak and beech woodlands.
Finding Tips
Look for Decaying Leaf Litter
Gymnopus dryophilus often grows on decaying leaf litter, especially under oak trees.
Check Temperate Woodlands
This mushroom is commonly found in temperate woodlands during the spring and fall.
Similar Species
Gymnopus confluens
Mushroom
Also known as: Clustered Toughshank
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Basidiomycota
- Class
- Agaricomycetes
- Order
- Agaricales
- Family
- Marasmiaceae
- Genus
- Gymnopus
Storage Information
- Max Temperature: 4°C (39°F)
- Freezing duration: 2-3 months
- Min Temperature: 2°C (36°F)
- Refrigeration: 3-5 days
How to Clean
Clean Gymnopus dryophilus by gently brushing off any dirt or debris. Avoid soaking in water, as they can become waterlogged.
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