How to identify Old-man-of-the-woods

To correctly identify Old-man-of-the-woods (Strobilomyces floccopus), 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 initially globose or oval, later becoming convex to flattened with age. The surface is covered in coarse, dark grey to black scales or tufts, giving it a rough and shaggy texture. The flesh is thick and white, bruising reddish and then blackish when cut or damaged.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   The gills are free to slightly decurrent, meaning they do not directly attach to the stem or run slightly down it. They are whitish to greyish, darkening with age and bruising. The pores are angular and relatively large.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   The stem is typically stout and sturdy, measuring 5 to 15 cm in length and 1 to 3 cm in diameter. It is covered in shaggy scales similar to those on the cap, and its color ranges from grey to black. The stem lacks a ring or volva.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh of Strobilomyces floccopus is thick and white, but it undergoes a color change when cut or bruised, turning reddish and eventually blackish. This bruising reaction is a key characteristic of the species.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   The fruiting body of Strobilomyces floccopus is typically medium to large in size, with a cap diameter ranging from 5 to 20 cm. The overall appearance is shaggy and dark, with prominent scales covering both the cap and stem.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Strobilomyces floccopus is found in both deciduous and coniferous forests, often in association with oak and pine trees. It is a mycorrhizal fungus, forming symbiotic relationships with the roots of trees. It typically fruits in summer and autumn.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Dry, shaggy with dark scales

Growth Form

Mycorrhizal

Spore Print

Black

Body color

Dark grey to black

Odor

Mild and earthy

Flesh bruises

Reddish then blackish

Height

5-15 cm

Cap Diameter

5-20 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Free to slightly decurrent
• Stem shape: Cylindrical
• Stem surface: Shaggy scales
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: Solid

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