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Pluteus americanus is a saprobic mushroom that grows on decaying wood. It is characterized by its pink spore print, free gills, and lack of a ring or volva. The cap is typically brownish, and the stem is white to pale brown.
How to Identify
- Cap
- The cap is typically 5-15 cm in diameter, convex to flattened, and brownish in color. The surface can be smooth or slightly wrinkled.
- Gills
- The gills are free from the stem, crowded, and white to pinkish in color as the spores mature.
- Stem
- The stem is typically 5-10 cm long and 1-2 cm thick, white to pale brown, and lacks a ring or volva.
- Flesh
- White and does not change color when bruised.
- Fruiting body
- Medium to large size mushroom with a distinct cap and stem.
- Habitat
- Grows on decaying hardwood.
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: Smooth to slightly wrinkled
- Growth Form: Solitary or in small groups
- Spore Print: Pink
- Body color: Brownish cap, white to pale brown stem
- Odor: Mild, not distinctive
- Flesh bruises: No color change
- Height: 5-10 cm
- Cap Diameter: 5-15 cm
- Nutrient gathering: Saprobic
Safe
SafePluteus americanus is not considered poisonous, but edibility is not well-established, and it is best avoided by novice mushroom hunters.
Quick Check
- Odor: Mild
- Fruiting: Decaying hardwood
- Substrate: Wood
Where to Find
North American Forests
Decaying hardwood logs, especially in forests with a mix of tree species.
Finding Tips
Habitat
Look for mushrooms growing on dead logs or stumps, particularly those of deciduous trees.
Spore Print
Check for a pink spore print by placing a cap on white paper overnight.
Similar Species
Pluteus cervinus
mushroom
Also known as: Deer Mushroom
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Basidiomycota
- Class
- Agaricomycetes
- Order
- Agaricales
- Family
- Pluteaceae
- Genus
- Pluteus
Storage Information
- Max Temperature: 2
- Freezing duration: N/A
- Min Temperature: 2
- Refrigeration: 3-5 days
How to Clean
Gently brush off any debris from the cap and stem. Avoid washing unless necessary, and if so, pat dry immediately.
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