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Hypsizygus tessulatus, commonly known as the Smoky Lard Mushroom, is a wood-decaying mushroom with a distinctive smoky gray cap and a short, stout stem. It is often found growing on decaying hardwood trees. While generally considered edible, caution is advised due to potential confusion with toxic look-alikes.
How to Identify
- Cap
- The cap of the Smoky Lard Mushroom is typically 3-10 cm in diameter, with a smoky gray to brownish color. The surface is smooth and may be slightly sticky when moist.
- Gills
- The gills are white to cream-colored, closely spaced, and run down the stem (decurrent).
- Stem
- The stem is short, stout, and often eccentric or lateral. It is typically white to cream-colored and may have a slightly hairy or velvety surface.
- Flesh
- The flesh of Hypsizygus tessulatus is white and firm.
- Fruiting body
- The fruiting body of Hypsizygus tessulatus typically consists of a cap and a stem. The cap is usually convex to flattened, with a smooth surface. The stem is short and stout, often eccentric or lateral.
- Habitat
- Hypsizygus tessulatus is typically found growing on decaying hardwood trees, such as beech, maple, and oak. It can be found in both forests and urban environments.
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: Smooth
- Growth Form: Clustered
- Spore Print: White
- Body color: Smoky gray to brownish
- Odor: Mild, mushroomy
- Flesh bruises: No bruising
- Height: 2-8 cm
- Cap Diameter: 3-10 cm
- Nutrient gathering: Saprophytic
Safe
SafeHypsizygus tessulatus is generally considered edible, but caution is advised due to potential confusion with toxic look-alikes. It is important to properly identify the mushroom before consumption.
Quick Check
- Odor: Mild, mushroomy
- Fruiting: Autumn
- Substrate: Decaying hardwood
Where to Find
North America
Found in hardwood forests across North America, particularly on decaying beech, maple, and oak trees.
Europe
Occurs in various European countries, with similar habitat preferences to North America.
Finding Tips
Check Decaying Wood
Look for Hypsizygus tessulatus on decaying hardwood logs and branches, especially after periods of rain.
Inspect Tree Wounds
Examine wounds and damaged areas on hardwood trees, as these can be entry points for the fungus.
Similar Species
Oyster Mushroom
Mushroom
Also known as: Pleurotus ostreatus
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Basidiomycota
- Class
- Agaricomycetes
- Order
- Agaricales
- Family
- Lyophyllaceae
- Genus
- Hypsizygus
Storage Information
- Max Temperature: 4°C
- Freezing duration: 3 months
- Min Temperature: 2°C
- Refrigeration: 1 week
How to Clean
To clean Hypsizygus tessulatus, gently brush off any dirt or debris from the cap and stem. Avoid washing the mushrooms unless necessary, as they can absorb water and become soggy.
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