How to identify Angel's Wings

To correctly identify Angel's Wings (Pleurocybella porrigens), 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 pure white, thin, smooth, and has a delicate, almost translucent appearance. The margin is often wavy or lobed.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   The gills are white, closely spaced, and run down the stem (decurrent).

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   The stem is either very short or absent.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is very thin and white.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   The fruiting body is small to medium-sized, typically 2-5 cm across, and shaped like a fan or shell.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Angel's Wings grows on decaying conifer wood, especially pine and hemlock. It is typically found in late summer and fall.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Smooth

Growth Form

Lateral, growing from wood

Spore Print

White

Body color

Pure white

Odor

Mild

Flesh bruises

Does not bruise

Height

Up to 3 cm

Cap Diameter

2-5 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Decurrent
• Stem shape: Absent or very short
• Stem surface: Smooth
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: N/A

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