How to identify Chestnut Mushroom

To correctly identify Chestnut Mushroom (Pholiota adiposa), 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 5-10 cm in diameter, convex to flattened, and has a sticky, cinnamon-brown surface. It may have small scales, especially near the center.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   The gills are adnate to slightly decurrent, crowded, and yellowish, becoming rusty brown with age.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   The stem is 5-8 cm long and 1-2 cm thick, yellowish-brown, and may have a ring zone. It is often scaly below the ring zone.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is firm and whitish to yellowish.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   The fruiting body of Pholiota adiposa is typically medium to large in size.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Grows on decaying hardwoods, often in clusters. It can be found in both forests and urban areas.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Sticky, scaly

Growth Form

Clustered

Spore Print

Rusty brown

Body color

Cinnamon-brown

Odor

Mild

Flesh bruises

No bruising

Height

5-8 cm

Cap Diameter

5-10 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Adnate to slightly decurrent
• Stem shape: Cylindrical
• Stem surface: Scaly below ring zone
• Ring: Ring zone may be present
• Stem cross-section: Solid

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