How to identify Orange Mock Oysterling

To correctly identify Orange Mock Oysterling (Phyllotopsis nidulans), 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 surface is dry and covered with fine hairs, giving it a velvety texture. The margin is often wavy or lobed.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   The gills are closely spaced, radiating from the point of attachment to the substrate. They are typically a lighter shade of orange than the cap.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   The stem is short or absent, with the cap directly attached to the substrate.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is thin, tough, and orange. It has a distinctive, unpleasant odor, often described as skunk-like or cabbage-like.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   The fruiting body is typically 2-7 cm wide, fan-shaped or kidney-shaped, and bright orange in color.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   It grows on decaying wood, often in clusters. It can be found on a variety of hardwoods and occasionally on conifers.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Velvety, covered with fine hairs

Growth Form

Clustered

Spore Print

Pinkish-orange

Body color

Bright orange

Odor

Unpleasant

Flesh bruises

Does not typically bruise

Height

Up to 3 cm

Cap Diameter

2-7 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Adnate to decurrent
• Stem shape: Absent or very short
• Stem surface: N/A
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: N/A

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