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Pholiota aurivella, commonly known as the Golden Pholiota or Chestnut Pholiota, is a species of agaric fungus in the family Strophariaceae. It is characterized by its golden-yellow to brownish-orange cap, which is often covered in scales or fibrils. This mushroom typically grows in clusters on decaying wood, particularly hardwoods. While not considered highly toxic, it is generally not recommended for consumption due to its potential to cause gastrointestinal upset in some individuals.
How to Identify
- Cap
- The cap of Pholiota aurivella is golden-yellow to brownish-orange, often with a sticky or slimy surface when moist. It is typically covered in scales or fibrils, which may be more prominent towards the center. The shape of the cap can range from convex to broadly convex or nearly flat in mature specimens.
- Gills
- The gills of Pholiota aurivella are attached to the stem (adnate to adnexed) and are closely spaced. They are typically yellowish to brownish in color, becoming darker with age. The gills may also have a slightly serrated edge.
- Stem
- The stem of Pholiota aurivella is yellowish to brownish, often with scales or fibrils similar to those on the cap. It may have a ring zone or remnants of a partial veil near the top. The stem is typically cylindrical or slightly tapered towards the base.
- Flesh
- The flesh of Pholiota aurivella is yellowish to brownish, and it does not typically change color when cut or bruised.
- Fruiting body
- The fruiting body of Pholiota aurivella is a mushroom with a distinct cap and stem. The cap is typically 5-15 cm in diameter, while the stem is usually 5-10 cm long and 1-2 cm thick.
- Habitat
- Pholiota aurivella is commonly found growing in clusters on decaying wood, particularly hardwoods such as beech, birch, and maple. It is a saprobic fungus, meaning it obtains nutrients from dead organic matter. It can be found in forests and woodlands throughout North America, Europe, and Asia, typically during the late summer and fall months.
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: Sticky or slimy when moist, covered in scales or fibrils
- Growth Form: Clustered
- Spore Print: Brown
- Body color: Golden-yellow to brownish-orange
- Odor: Mild or slightly fungal
- Flesh bruises: No color change
- Height: 5-10 cm
- Cap Diameter: 5-15 cm
- Nutrient gathering: Saprobic
Safe
Mild ToxicityPholiota aurivella is not considered highly toxic, but it can cause gastrointestinal upset in some individuals. It is generally not recommended for consumption due to this potential.
Quick Check
- Odor: Mild or slightly fungal
- Fruiting: Grows in clusters on decaying wood
- Substrate: Decaying hardwood
Where to Find
North America
Pholiota aurivella can be found in various regions of North America, particularly in forests and woodlands with hardwood trees.
Europe
This mushroom species is also found in Europe, where it grows on decaying wood in forests and wooded areas.
Asia
Pholiota aurivella is present in some parts of Asia, where it can be found in similar habitats as in North America and Europe.
Finding Tips
Look for Decaying Wood
Pholiota aurivella typically grows on decaying wood, so focus your search on fallen logs, stumps, and branches in forests and woodlands.
Check Hardwood Trees
This mushroom species is often associated with hardwood trees such as beech, birch, and maple, so check these types of trees for potential growth sites.
Search in Late Summer and Fall
Pholiota aurivella is most commonly found during the late summer and fall months, so plan your foraging trips accordingly.
Similar Species
Pholiota adiposa
mushroom
Also known as: Fat Pholiota
Gymnopilus junonius
mushroom
Also known as: Laughing Gym
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Basidiomycota
- Class
- Agaricomycetes
- Order
- Agaricales
- Family
- Strophariaceae
- Genus
- Pholiota
Storage Information
- Max Temperature: 4°C (39°F)
- Freezing duration: 2-3 months
- Min Temperature: -18°C (0°F)
- Refrigeration: 3-5 days
How to Clean
To clean Pholiota aurivella mushrooms, gently brush off any dirt or debris from the caps and stems. Avoid soaking them in water, as they can become waterlogged. If necessary, use a damp cloth to wipe away stubborn dirt. Trim any damaged or discolored parts before cooking.
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