How to identify Pale Brittlestem

To correctly identify Pale Brittlestem (Psathyrella candolleana), 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.

   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.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   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.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   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.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   Thin and fragile, whitish in color.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   Small and fragile mushroom with a pale cap and stem, growing in clusters.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   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

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Adnate to adnexed
• Stem shape: Cylindrical
• Stem surface: Smooth
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: Hollow

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