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Hypsizygus ulmarius, commonly known as the elm oyster mushroom, is a saprophytic fungus. It has a broad, convex to kidney-shaped cap, typically 5–20 cm (2–8 in) in diameter. The cap surface is smooth and can be white to cream or light tan in color. The gills are white, decurrent, and closely spaced. The stem is short, thick, and often eccentric or lateral. The flesh is white and firm. It grows on dead or dying elm trees and other hardwoods.
How to Identify
- Cap
- The cap surface is smooth and can be white to cream or light tan in color.
- Gills
- The gills are white, decurrent, and closely spaced.
- Stem
- The stem is short, thick, and often eccentric or lateral.
- Flesh
- The flesh is white and firm.
- Fruiting body
- The fruiting body of Hypsizygus ulmarius is typically 5–20 cm (2–8 in) in diameter, with a broad, convex to kidney-shaped cap.
- Habitat
- It grows on dead or dying elm trees and other hardwoods.
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: Smooth
- Growth Form: Clustered or solitary
- Spore Print: White
- Body color: White to cream or light tan
- Odor: Mild and pleasant
- Flesh bruises: Does not typically bruise
- Height: Variable, typically short
- Cap Diameter: 5–20 cm (2–8 in)
- Nutrient gathering: Saprophytic
Safe
SafeHypsizygus ulmarius is generally considered edible and non-toxic.
Quick Check
- Odor: Mild and pleasant
- Fruiting: Late summer to fall
- Substrate: Dead or dying elm trees and other hardwoods
Where to Find
North America
Hypsizygus ulmarius can be found in North America, particularly in regions where elm trees are prevalent.
Europe
This species is also found in Europe, where it grows on various hardwood trees.
Finding Tips
Check Elm Trees
Look for Hypsizygus ulmarius on dead or dying elm trees, especially after periods of rain.
Inspect Hardwoods
Also check other hardwoods for this mushroom, as it can occasionally grow on different tree species.
Similar Species
Oyster Mushroom
edible mushroom
Also known as: Pleurotus ostreatus
Angel Wings
inedible mushroom
Also known as: Pleurocybella porrigens
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Basidiomycota
- Class
- Agaricomycetes
- Order
- Agaricales
- Family
- Lyophyllaceae
- Genus
- Hypsizygus
Storage Information
- Max Temperature: 4°C (39°F)
- Freezing duration: 3-6 months
- Min Temperature: 2°C (36°F)
- Refrigeration: 1 week
How to Clean
To clean Hypsizygus ulmarius, gently brush off any debris or dirt from the cap and stem. Avoid soaking the mushroom in water, as it can become waterlogged. A soft brush or a damp cloth can be used to clean the surface.
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