Mushroom and Toadstools / How to Distinguish Easily the Differences Between Edible and Poisonous Fungi

Chapter 30: Clouded Mushroom. Fig. 24.

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About This Book

A practical field guide that helps readers separate edible from poisonous fungi through clear descriptions and nature-based illustrations of dozens of species. It supplies indices of common and scientific names, engraved plates of twenty-nine edible and thirty-one poisonous species, and short diagnostic notes on appearance, habitat, and handling. Introductory remarks discuss safe collecting and eating practices, such as choosing fresh specimens, avoiding overconsumption, and caution for beginners. The author emphasizes careful comparison with the plates, offers to identify specimens sent for inspection, and relates occasional personal cautions from earlier mistakes. The volume mixes botanical observation with culinary advice to encourage informed, cautious use of wild fungi.

Clouded Mushroom. Fig. 24.

(Agaricus [Clitocybe] nebularis.)78.

Common (in certain places), but rare near London. This species appears late in the autumn and generally grows on dead leaves in moist places, principally on the borders of woods. The top is lead-colour or grey, at first clouded grey,—hence its name; the stem is stout, elastic, and striate, with the white gills running considerably down the ringless stem, in the manner shown in the drawing.

The gastronomic excellences of the species are well known. When gathered, it has a wholesome and powerful odour; and when cooked, the firm and fragrant flesh has a particularly agreeable and palatable taste.