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The Pale Brittlestem (Psathyrella candolleana) is a common, but often overlooked mushroom due to its small size and fragile nature. It is found in many parts of the world and is known for its pale color and tendency to crumble easily.
How to Identify
- Cap
- Cap is initially conical, then expands to convex or flat with age. It is typically 2-6 cm in diameter, and pale cream to tan in color, often with a slightly darker center. The surface is smooth and may be slightly wrinkled.
- Gills
- Gills are crowded, adnate to adnexed, and start pale but darken to a grayish-brown or purplish-brown as the spores mature. They are often slightly wavy or uneven.
- Stem
- The stem is slender, fragile, and hollow, typically 4-8 cm long and 0.3-0.8 cm thick. It is whitish to pale tan in color and has a smooth surface. There is no ring or volva.
- Flesh
- Thin and fragile, whitish in color.
- Fruiting body
- Small and fragile mushroom with a pale cap and stem, growing in clusters.
- Habitat
- Grows in clusters on decaying wood, leaf litter, and in grassy areas. It is commonly found after rain.
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: Smooth, slightly wrinkled
- Growth Form: Clustered
- Spore Print: Dark brown to purplish-brown
- Body color: Pale cream to tan
- Odor: Mild, fungal
- Flesh bruises: Does not typically bruise
- Height: 4-8 cm
- Cap Diameter: 2-6 cm
- Nutrient gathering: Saprophytic
Safe
Mild ToxicityWhile not considered highly toxic, some Psathyrella species can cause gastrointestinal upset in some individuals. It is best to avoid consuming this mushroom.
Quick Check
- Odor: Mild, fungal
- Fruiting: Grows in clusters
- Substrate: Decaying wood, leaf litter, grassy areas
Where to Find
Woodland and grassy areas
Grows on decaying wood, leaf litter, and in grassy areas.
Worldwide
Found in North America, Europe, and Asia.
Finding Tips
After Rain
Look for clusters of small, pale mushrooms on decaying wood or in grassy areas after rain.
Decaying Wood
Check areas with decaying wood or leaf litter.
Similar Species
Marasmius oreades
mushroom
Also known as: Fairy Ring Mushroom
Galerina marginata
mushroom
Also known as: Funeral Bell
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Basidiomycota
- Class
- Agaricomycetes
- Order
- Agaricales
- Family
- Psathyrellaceae
- Genus
- Psathyrella
Storage Information
- Max Temperature: N/A
- Freezing duration: N/A
- Min Temperature: Refrigerate
- Refrigeration: Not recommended for long storage
How to Clean
Not typically consumed due to its small size and insubstantial flesh. If desired, gently brush off any debris.
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