Green Mushroom also known as Stropharia aeruginosa is a medium-sized blue-green, slimy woodland fungus that grows on lawns, mulch, and in woodlands from spring to October. The edibility of this fungus is debatable; some sources claim it is edible, while others claim it is dangerous. However, the consequences are unknown, and the toxic ingredients are not defined. In most cases, the crowns are closer to green than blue, yet when new and fresh, they are stunningly gorgeous and startling.
Stropharia aeruginosa, commonly known as the verdigris agaric or the green-stalked parasol mushroom, is a fascinating fungus known for its striking green coloration.
Appearance: The cap of Stropharia aeruginosa is initially bell-shaped, later flattening out, and can reach up to 10 cm in diameter. It is typically dark green when young, fading to a pale grayish-green with age. The stem is also green, with a white, membranous ring.
The cap, convex or broadly bell-shaped at first, becoming broadly convex, with or without a central bump—or nearly flat; very slimy when fresh; bald; when young deep blue-green, but soon fading to yellowish-green and developing yellowish areas and spots; eventually becoming brownish yellow overall; the marginal area often decorated with whitish partial veil remnants, especially when young.
Gills are broadly attached to the stem but recede with maturity; they are close or virtually distant at maturity; short-gills are abundant; they are whitish to pale gray at first, then purplish gray to purple-black; the edges are pale and contrasted.
Stem 3-7 cm long, 5-10 mm thick, equal, dry, with a frail, quickly disintegrating sheathing ring with a flaring and ragged upper border; typically, with white scales when young; pale above, colored like the cap below; basal mycelium white; linked to white rhizomorphs.
The flesh is soft, white, or colored like the cap and does not change when sliced. The odor is sweet and slightly unpleasant (similar to the “green corn” odor found in some species of Inocybe); the taste is unremarkable or somewhat radish-like.
Habitat: This green mushroom often grows in grassy areas, wood chips, or rich soil. It prefers damp conditions and is commonly found in late summer and autumn.
Edibility: Stropharia aeruginosa is generally regarded as unpalatable because it might cause gastrointestinal distress in certain people. Additionally, its green coloring may suggest the presence of potentially hazardous chemicals.
Ecological Role: Stropharia aeruginosa, like many other mushrooms, is a crucial decomposer in ecosystems, breaking down organic matter and returning nutrients to the soil.
Identification: When diagnosing Stropharia aeruginosa, use caution because other mushrooms with greenish tints may be dangerous. Accurate identification sometimes necessitates a thorough investigation of essential characteristics such as spore print color, gill attachment, and environment.
Cultivation: Others cultivate Stropharia aeruginosa for its aesthetic value, as it can add a unique touch to gardens and wooded areas. However, take caution, especially if the mushrooms are in an area accessible to children or pets.
These mushrooms, such as Stropharia aeruginosa, can be found in different habitats, including grassy areas, woodlands, gardens, and urban areas.
Stropharia aeruginosa, or the verdigris agaric, has several similar-looking species that can be found in similar habitats. Here are a few:
Stropharia caerulea:
This species is very similar in appearance to Stropharia aeruginosa but has a blue-green coloration instead of green. It is also known as the blue-green Stropharia.
Stropharia cyanea a variety of green mushroom:
Another blue-green mushroom, Stropharia cyanea is similar in appearance to Stropharia aeruginosa and Stropharia caerulea. It can be found in similar habitats and has a similar cap shape and size.
Stropharia hornemannii:
This species, commonly known as the meadow mushroom, is similar in appearance to Stropharia aeruginosa but has a more brownish cap and lacks green coloration. It is edible and is sometimes confused with the toxic green species.
Chlorophyllum molybdites:
Chlorophyllum molybdites is frequently confused with Stropharia aeruginosa due to its greenish appearance despite being unrelated to Stropharia species. However, it is poisonous and can cause gastrointestinal distress if ingested.
Leucocoprinus birnbaumii:
This mushroom, also known as the flowerpot parasol, is not closely related to Stropharia species but is sometimes mistaken for them due to its bright yellow to greenish-yellow coloration. It is not toxic but is not edible either.
20 Types of green mushrooms
Mouse-pee Pinkgills a variety of green mushroom
The Mouse-pee Pinkgill, or Entoloma incanum, is in the Entolomataceae family. It is known for its pinkish gills and cap, and the somewhat peculiar name is derived from the mouse-urine-like odor it emits. Here are some key features of Entoloma incanum:
Appearance:
The cap of Entoloma incanum is typically 2-5 cm in diameter, convex to broadly convex, and often has a central depression. The cap color can vary from pale pink to reddish-brown or grayish-brown. The gills are pink and may turn reddish-brown with age.
Habitat:
This mushroom grows in grassy environments, like parks, meadows, and lawns. It is a saprotrophic species, meaning it acquires nutrients from decomposing organic matter in the soil.
Odor and Taste:
Entoloma incanum is known for its distinctive odor, described as resembling mouse urine, hence the common name, with a nondistictive taste.
Spore Print:
The spore print of Entoloma incanum is pink, which helps distinguish it from similar-looking species.
Edibility:
While Entoloma incanum is not known to be toxic, it is not considered edible due to its small size and lack of culinary value. Additionally, accurately identifying mushrooms in the Entoloma genus can be challenging, as some species are toxic.
Similar Species:
Entoloma incanum can be confused with other pink-spored mushrooms, such as Entoloma clypeatum and Entoloma serrulatum. Careful examination of features, such as spore color, gill attachment, and habitat, is necessary for accurate identification.
Green Earthtongues.
A species of fungus in the Geoglossaceae family, they are known for their unusual appearance and vibrant green color.
Appearance:
Green Earthtongues resemble earthworms with long, slender, and cylindrical bodies. The fruiting body, or spore-bearing structure, is usually 3–10 cm tall and 1-3 mm thick. The color might range from brilliant green to yellowish-green.
Habitat:
These fungi are saprophytic, meaning they obtain nutrients by decomposing dead organic matter. They are often found in woodland habitats, particularly in moist and shady areas.
Distribution:
Microglossum viride is found in various parts of the world, including Europe, North America, and Asia.
Reproduction:
The spores of Microglossum viride are produced on the surface of the fruiting body and dispersed by wind.
Edibility:
Green Earthtongues are not considered edible and are best left undisturbed in their natural habitat.
Ecological Role:
Like other saprophytic fungi, Microglossum viride plays a critical role in ecosystem nutrient cycling by breaking down dead organic matter and releasing nutrients into the soil.
Conservation:
Some Earthtongue species, such as Microglossum viride, are classified as rare or endangered in specific areas due to habitat loss and degradation and, as a result, protected.
Verdigris Waxcaps, a variety of green mushroom
Verdigris Waxcaps, scientifically known as Gliophorus viridis (formerly Hygrocybe viridis), are in the waxcap genus. They are known for their vibrant green color and are often found in grasslands, meadows, and other grassy habitats. Verdigris Waxcaps are striking mushrooms that add a splash of color to grasslands and other habitats.
Appearance:
Verdigris Waxcaps have a small, smooth, and brightly colored cap that is typically green but can also range from yellow-green to olive-green. The cap is convex when young, flattening out with age, and usually has a slightly sticky or slimy texture when moist.
Gills:
The gills of Gliophorus viridis are broadly attached to the stem, often with a decurrent (running down the stem) attachment. They are typically the same color as the cap or slightly paler.
Stem:
The stem of Verdigris Waxcaps is usually slender, smooth, and the same color as the cap or slightly paler. It is often covered in a whitish or yellowish powdery coating, especially near the base.
Habitat:
These mushrooms are often found in grassy areas, especially in old, unimproved grasslands. They can also occur in woodland edges, heathlands, and other open habitats.
Edibility:
While Gliophorus viridis is not known to be toxic, it is not considered edible either. Like many waxcap species, it is best appreciated for its beauty and ecological role rather than for culinary purposes.
Ecological Role:
Verdigris Waxcaps are believed to be mycorrhizal, forming mutually beneficial relationships with the roots of plants. They help improve soil health and nutrient cycling in grasslands and other habitats.
Conservation:
Some species of waxcaps, including Gliophorus viridis, are indicators of high-quality grassland habitats. They are sensitive to changes in land management practices, such as fertilization and mowing, and their presence or absence can provide valuable information about the health of these ecosystems.
Chicken Lips
“Chicken Lips” is a species of fungus in the family Leotiaceae. This fungus is also known by other common names such as “Jelly Baby” or “Green Jelly Drops.”
“Chicken Lips” is an informal and somewhat whimsical name for Leotia viscosathat reflects its unusual appearance and texture.
Appearance:
Leotia viscosa is a tiny fungus with a distinctive appearance. It has a smooth, jelly-like, or rubbery texture and typically grows to about 1-5 cm tall. The color can vary, but it is often yellowish-green or olive-green.
Habitat:
This fungus is saprobic, meaning it derives nutrients from dead organic debris. It is usually found in woodlands, where it grows on decaying plant matter like leaf litter or woody debris.
Distribution:
Leotia viscosa is found in various parts of the world, including North America, Europe, and Asia.
Edibility:
While Leotia viscosa is not considered toxic, it is not edible due to its small size and lack of culinary value.
Ecological Role: Leotia viscosa, like other saprobic fungi, contributes to ecosystem nutrient cycling by breaking down decaying organic materials and releasing nutrients into the soil.
Similar Species:
Several other species of Leotia fungi are similar in appearance to Leotia viscosa. Accurate identification often requires careful examination of key features such as color, texture, and habitat.
Parrot Mushrooms, a variety of green mushroom
Parrot Mushrooms (Gliophorus psittacinus) are a species of mushroom known for their bright, parrot-like colors.
Appearance:
Parrot Mushrooms have a small, smooth, and brightly colored cap that is typically green but can also range from yellow-green to olive-green or even blue-green. The cap is convex when young, flattening out with age, and usually has a slightly sticky or slimy texture when moist.
Gills:
The gills of Gliophorus psittacinus are broadly attached to the stem, often with a decurrent (running down the stem) attachment. They are typically the same color as the cap or slightly paler.
Stem:
The stem of Parrot Mushrooms is usually slender, smooth, and the same color as the cap or slightly paler. It is often covered in a whitish or yellowish powdery coating, especially near the base.
Habitat:
These mushrooms are often found in grassy areas, especially in old, unimproved grasslands. They can also occur in woodland edges, heathlands, and other open habitats.
Edibility:
While Gliophorus psittacinus is not known to be toxic, it is not edible either. Like many brightly colored mushrooms, it is best appreciated for its beauty and ecological role rather than for culinary purposes.
Ecological Role:
Parrot Mushrooms are believed to be mycorrhizal, forming mutually beneficial relationships with the roots of plants. They help improve soil health and nutrient cycling in grasslands and other habitats.
Conservation:
Other vividly colored waxcap mushrooms, like Gliophorus psittacinus, are thought to be markers of healthy grassland environments. They are vulnerable to changes in land management methods like fertilization and mowing, and their existence or absence reveals crucial information about the health of these ecosystems.
Aniseed Funnel
The Aniseed Funnel, scientifically known as Clitocybe odora, is a mushroom species known for its distinctive aniseed or licorice-like aroma. Here are some key features of Clitocybe odora:
Appearance:
The cap of the Aniseed Funnel is 5-10 cm in diameter, having a convex appearance while young that flattens out with age. The color of the cap varies, but it is typically pale greenish or bluish-green. The gills are extensively linked to the stem and are often white or pale cream.
Odor:
The most characteristic feature of Clitocybe odora is its strong aniseed-like aroma, which is particularly noticeable when the mushroom is fresh or bruised. This aroma is the presence of compounds such as anethole, found in aniseed and fennel.
Habitat:
Aniseed Funnels are commonly found in woodland habitats, often growing on the ground in leaf litter or on rotting wood in late summer and autumn.
Edibility:
Clitocybe odora is considered edible and valued for its unique flavor. However, it is crucial to be cautious when foraging for wild mushrooms and correctly identify them before consuming them.
Similar Species:
Several other mushroom species have a similar appearance and odor to Clitocybe odora, so careful identification is necessary. One notable lookalike is Clitocybe dealbata, which is toxic and should not be consumed.
Culinary Use:
Due to its distinctive flavor, Aniseed Funnel is often used in cooking to impart an aniseed flavor to dishes. It can be used fresh or dried and is particularly popular in European cuisine.
Lime-Green Waxy Cap.
The Lime-Green Waxy Cap, scientifically known as Hygrocybe virescens, is a species of mushroom known for its vibrant lime-green color.
Appearance:
The cap of the Lime-Green Waxy Cap is typically 2-5 cm in diameter, convex to broadly convex, and often has a slightly sticky or waxy texture. The color is a striking lime-green, which can fade to yellowish-green with age. The gills are usually a paler shade of green than the cap.
Habitat:
These mushrooms are often found in grassy areas, meadows, and woodland edges. They are mycorrhizal, forming mutually beneficial relationships with the roots of plants.
Edibility:
While Hygrocybe virescens is not known to be toxic, it is not edible either. Like many brightly colored mushrooms, it is best appreciated for its beauty rather than for culinary purposes.
Similar Species:
Several other species of Hygrocybe mushrooms are similar in appearance to Hygrocybe virescens. Accurate identification often requires careful examination of key features such as color, texture, and habitat.
Ecological Function:
Lime-green waxy Caps aid the ecosystem’s nutrient cycle by decomposing decaying organic matter and releasing nutrients into the soil. They are also signs of a healthy grassland and woodland ecosystem.
Jade Pinkgills
Jade Pinkgills, scientifically known as Entoloma glaucoroseum, are a species of mushroom known for their unique coloration and appearance. Here are some key features of Entoloma glaucoroseum:
Appearance:
The cap of Jade Pinkgills is typically 2-5 cm in diameter, convex to broadly convex, and often has a slightly sticky or greasy texture. The color is a striking jade green, which can fade to pale green or whitish with age. The gills are pinkish, giving the mushroom its common name.
Habitat:
These mushrooms are often found in grassy areas, meadows, and woodland edges. They are saprobic, meaning they obtain nutrients by decomposing dead organic matter.
Edibility:
While Entoloma glaucoroseum is not known to be toxic, it is not edible either. Like many mushrooms with unusual colors, it is best appreciated for its beauty rather than for culinary purposes.
Similar Species:
Several other species of Entoloma mushrooms are similar in appearance to Entoloma glaucoroseum. Accurate identification often requires careful examination of key features such as color, texture, and habitat.
Ecological Role:
Jade Pinkgills contribute significantly to the ecosystem’s nutrient cycle by breaking down decaying organic debris and releasing nutrients into the soil. They are also indicative of thriving grassland and woodland ecosystems.
Green Brittlegills, a variety of green mushroom
Green Brittlegills, scientifically known as Russula aeruginea, are a species of mushroom known for their striking greenish-blue caps.
- Appearance: The cap of Russula aeruginea is typically 5-10 cm in diameter, convex when young, and flattening out with age. The color can vary but is often a vibrant greenish-blue or bluish-green, sometimes with darker green or brownish patches. The cap is smooth and slightly sticky or tacky to the touch.
- Gills: The gills of Green Brittlegills are white and attached to the stem or slightly decurrent (running down the stem). The gills are brittle like the rest of the mushroom and can easily break or crumble.
- Stem: The stem of Russula aeruginea is typically 3-8 cm tall and 1-2 cm thick, cylindrical, and often white or pale greenish. The stem is also brittle and can break easily.
- Habitat: Green Brittlegills are often found in mixed woodlands, particularly under broad-leaved trees such as oak, beech, and birch. They are mycorrhizal, forming symbiotic relationships with the roots of these trees.
- Edibility: Russula aeruginea is considered edible, but it is critical to properly cook them before consuming, as some people may have gastrointestinal upset if eaten raw or undercooked. It is always best to consult a local expert or field guide before consuming wild mushrooms.
- Similar Species: Several other species of Russula mushrooms have greenish caps and could be confused with Russula aeruginea. Accurate identification often requires careful examination of key features such as cap color, gill attachment, and spore print color.
Green Skinhead mushrooms
Green Skinhead mushrooms, scientifically known as Cortinarius austrovenetus, are a species of fungus in the Cortinarius genus. Green Skinhead mushrooms are an interesting and visually striking mushroom species.
Appearance:
The cap of Cortinarius austrovenetus is typically 3-8 cm in diameter, convex when young, and flattening out with age. The color can vary but is often a vibrant green or greenish-blue, sometimes with darker green or brownish patches. The cap is smooth and often slightly sticky or tacky to the touch.
Gills:
The gills of Green Skinhead mushrooms are often yellowish or olive-green when young, becoming rusty brown with age. They are attached to the stem or slightly decurrent.
Stem:
The stem of Cortinarius austrovenetus is typically 5-10 cm tall and 1-2 cm thick, cylindrical, and often whitish or pale greenish. The stem is also slightly sticky and can have remnants of a veil (the cortina) that once covered the gills.
Habitat:
Green Skinhead mushrooms are mycorrhizal, forming symbiotic relationships with the roots of trees. They are often found in mixed woodlands, particularly under coniferous trees.
Edibility:
Cortinarius austrovenetus is not considered edible. Some species of Cortinarius mushrooms can be toxic. Avoid consuming them unless correctly identified.
Similar Species:
Several other species of Cortinarius mushrooms have greenish caps and could be confused with Cortinarius austrovenetus. Accurate identification often requires careful examination of key features such as cap color, gill attachment, and stem characteristics.
Parrot Mushrooms
Parrot Mushrooms, scientifically known as Gliophorus psittacinus (formerly Hygrocybe psittacina), are a species of mushroom known for their vibrant colors, which resemble those of a parrot. Here are some key features of Gliophorus psittacinus:
Appearance:
The cap of Parrot Mushrooms is typically 2-5 cm in diameter, convex to broadly convex, and often has a slightly sticky or greasy texture. The color is a striking lime green, which can fade to yellowish-green with age. The gills are typically a paler shade of green than the cap.
Habitat:
These mushrooms are often found in grassy areas, meadows, and woodland edges. They are mycorrhizal, forming mutually beneficial relationships with the roots of plants.
Edibility:
While Gliophorus psittacinus is not known to be toxic, it is not edible either. Like many brightly colored mushrooms, it is best appreciated for its beauty rather than for culinary purposes.
Similar Species:
Several other species of Gliophorus and Hygrocybe mushrooms are similar in appearance to Gliophorus psittacinus. Accurate identification often requires careful examination of key features such as cap color, gill attachment, and stem characteristics.
Ecological Role:
Parrot Mushrooms play a vital part in the ecosystem’s nutrient cycle by decomposing dead organic matter and returning nutrients to the soil. They are also signs of a healthy grassland and woodland ecosystem.
Green-staining Coral Mushrooms
Green-staining Coral Mushrooms, scientifically known as Phaeoclavulina abietina, are a species of fungus known for their coral-like appearance and ability to stain green when bruised or injured. Green-staining Coral Mushrooms are a fascinating and visually striking fungus species.
Appearance:
The fruiting bodies of Phaeoclavulina abietina are small and coral-like, with multiple branches that radiate outwards from a central point. The color is typically whitish or pale when young, becoming yellowish or tan with age. When bruised or injured, the flesh of the mushroom can stain green, a characteristic feature of this species.
Habitat:
Green-staining Coral Mushrooms are saprobic, meaning they obtain nutrients by decomposing dead organic matter. They are often found in coniferous forests, particularly under pine trees.
Edibility:
While Phaeoclavulina abietina is not known to be toxic, it is not edible either. Like many coral mushrooms, it is best appreciated for its unusual appearance rather than for culinary purposes.
Similar Species:
Several other species of coral mushrooms are similar in appearance to Phaeoclavulina abietina. Accurate identification often requires careful examination of key features such as color, branching pattern, and spore print color.
Ecological role:
Green-staining. Coral mushrooms contribute significantly to the ecosystem’s nutrient cycle by decomposing dead organic debris and returning nutrients to the soil. They are also markers of thriving forest ecosystems.
Greasy Green Brittlegills
Greasy Green Brittlegills, scientifically known as Russula heterophylla, are a species of mushroom known for their bright green caps and brittle texture. Greasy Green Brittlegills are a visually appealing mushroom species adding a pop of color to wooded areas.
Appearance:
The cap of Russula heterophylla is typically 4-10 cm in diameter, convex when young, and flattening out with age. The color is a vibrant green, often with darker green or brownish patches. The cap surface can be greasy or slightly sticky to the touch.
Gills:
The gills of Greasy Green Brittlegills are white and can be somewhat brittle, like the rest of the mushroom. They are typically attached to the stem or slightly decurrent.
Stem:
The stem of Russula heterophylla is typically 3-8 cm tall and 1-2 cm thick, cylindrical, and often white or pale greenish. The stem is also brittle and can break easily.
Habitat:
Greasy Green Brittlegills are mycorrhizal, forming symbiotic relationships with the roots of trees. They are often found in mixed woodlands, particularly under broad-leaved trees such as oak, beech, and birch.
Edibility:
Russula heterophylla is considered edible, but it is crucial to properly cook them before consuming, as some people may have gastrointestinal upset if eaten raw or undercooked. It is always best to consult a local expert or field guide before consuming wild mushrooms.
Similar Species:
Several other species of Russula mushrooms have greenish caps and could be confused with Russula heterophylla. Accurate identification often requires careful examination of key features such as cap color, gill attachment, and stem characteristics.
Greasy Green Brittlegills
Greasy Green Brittlegills, scientifically known as Russula heterophylla, are a species of mushroom known for their bright green caps and brittle texture.
Appearance: The cap of Russula heterophylla is typically 4-10 cm in diameter, convex when young, and flattening out with age. The color is a vibrant green, often with darker green or brownish patches. The cap surface can be greasy or slightly sticky to the touch.
Gills: The gills of Greasy Green Brittlegills are white and can be somewhat brittle, like the rest of the mushroom. They are typically attached to the stem or slightly decurrent.
Stem: The stem of Russula heterophylla is typically 3-8 cm tall and 1-2 cm thick, cylindrical, and often white or pale greenish. The stem is also brittle and can break easily.
Habitat: Greasy Green Brittlegills are mycorrhizal, forming symbiotic relationships with the roots of trees. They are often found in mixed woodlands, particularly under broad-leaved trees such as oak, beech, and birch.
Edibility: Russula heterophylla is considered edible, but it is crucial to properly cook them before consuming, as some people may have gastrointestinal upset if eaten raw or undercooked. It is always best to consult a local expert or field guide before consuming wild mushrooms.
Similar Species:
Several other species of Russula mushrooms have greenish caps and could be confused with Russula heterophylla. Accurate identification often requires careful examination of key features such as cap color, gill attachment, and stem characteristics.
Green Stem Pinkgills
Green Stem Pinkgills, scientifically known as Entoloma rodwayi, are a species of mushroom known for their pink gills and greenish stems.
Entoloma rodwayi’s cap is usually 2-6 cm in diameter, convex to flat, and has a slightly velvety texture. The color of the cap might vary, although it is usually pink, with a greenish tinge in the middle. Pink gills appear beneath the crown.
Stem:
The stem of Green Stem Pinkgills is typically 5-10 cm tall and 0.5-1 cm thick, cylindrical, and often greenish towards the base. The stem is smooth and may have a slightly fibrous texture.
Habitat:
These mushrooms are often found in grassy areas, meadows, and woodland edges. They are saprobic, meaning they obtain nutrients by decomposing dead organic matter.
Edibility:
While Entoloma rodwayi is not known to be toxic, it is not edible either. Like many mushrooms with unusual colors, it is best appreciated for its beauty rather than for culinary purposes.
Similar Species:
Several other species of Entoloma mushrooms are similar in appearance to Entoloma rodwayi. Accurate identification often requires careful examination of key features such as cap color, gill attachment, and stem characteristics.
Green Russulas
Green Russulas, scientifically known as Russula virescens, are a group of mushroom species within the Russula genus characterized by their greenish coloration.
Appearance:
The cap of Russula virescens and other green Russulas is typically 5-15 cm in diameter, convex to flattened, and often has a slightly sticky or tacky texture. The color can vary but is usually a vibrant green, sometimes with yellow or brownish hues. The cap margin is often slightly furrowed or scalloped.
Gills:
The gills of Green Russulas are typically white or cream-colored, although they can sometimes take on a greenish tint from the spores. The gills are usually adnate or slightly decurrent, meaning they are attached to the stem or running slightly down it.
Stem:
The stem of Russula virescens and other green Russulas is typically 5-10 cm tall and 1-2 cm thick, cylindrical, and often white or pale greenish. The stem is usually firm and brittle, like the rest of the mushroom.
Habitat:
Green Russulas are mycorrhizal, forming symbiotic relationships with the roots of trees. They are often found in mixed woodlands, particularly under broad-leaved trees such as oak, beech, and birch.
Edibility:
While Russula virescens and some other green Russulas are considered edible, others can be peppery or bitter-tasting. Proper identification is crucial, as some species can cause stomach upset if consumed. It is always best to consult a local expert or field guide before consuming wild mushrooms.
Similar Species:
Several other species of Russula mushrooms can have greenish caps and could be confused with Russula virescens. Accurate identification often requires careful examination of key features such as cap color, gill attachment, and stem characteristics.
Jade Pinkgills
Jade Pinkgills, scientifically known as Entoloma glaucoroseum, are a species of mushroom known for their unique coloration and appearance. Here are some key features of Entoloma glaucoroseum:
Appearance:
The cap of Entoloma glaucoroseum is typically 2-5 cm in diameter, convex to broadly convex, and often has a slightly sticky or greasy texture. The color is a striking jade green, which can fade to pale green or whitish with age. The gills are typically a paler shade of green than the cap.
Habitat:
These mushrooms are often found in grassy areas, meadows, and woodland edges. They are saprobic, meaning they obtain nutrients by decomposing dead organic matter.
Edibility:
While Entoloma glaucoroseum is not known to be toxic, it is not edible either. Like many brightly colored mushrooms, it is best appreciated for its beauty rather than for culinary purposes.
Similar Species:
Several other species of Entoloma mushrooms are similar in appearance to Entoloma glaucoroseum. Accurate identification often requires careful examination of key features such as cap color, texture, and habitat.
Ecological Role:
Jade Pinkgills contribute significantly to the ecosystem’s nutrient cycle by breaking down decaying organic debris and releasing nutrients into the soil. They are also indicative of thriving grassland and woodland ecosystems.
Gliophorus graminicolor (Verdigris Waxcap)
The Verdigris Waxcap, scientifically known as Gliophorus graminicolor (formerly Hygrocybe graminicolor), is a species of mushroom known for its vibrant greenish-blue cap.
Appearance: The cap of the Verdigris Waxcap is typically 1-5 cm in diameter, convex when young, and flattening out with age. The color is a striking greenish-blue or turquoise, often with darker green or brownish patches. The cap surface is smooth and slightly sticky or tacky to the touch.
Gills: The gills of Gliophorus graminicolor are usually white or pale cream, although they can sometimes take on a greenish tint from the spores. The gills are often slightly decurrent, running slightly down the stem.
Stem: The stem of the Verdigris Waxcap is typically 3-8 cm tall and 0.5-1 cm thick, cylindrical, and often white or pale greenish. The stem is smooth and may have a slightly fibrous texture.
Habitat: Verdigris Waxcaps are often found in grassy areas, meadows, and woodland edges. They are mycorrhizal, forming mutually beneficial relationships with the roots of plants.
Edibility: While Gliophorus graminicolor is not known to be toxic, it is not edible either. Like many brightly colored mushrooms, it is best appreciated for its beauty rather than for culinary purposes.
Similar Species: Several other species of waxcap mushrooms are similar in appearance to the Verdigris Waxcap. Accurate identification often requires careful examination of key features such as cap color, gill attachment, and stem characteristics.
Green Wood Cup fungi
Green Wood Cup fungi, scientifically known as Chlorociboria aeruginascens, are a group of fungi known for their brilliant green cup-shaped fruiting bodies. Green Elf Cup mushrooms are a beautiful and fascinating example of the diversity of fungi in nature.
Appearance:
The fruiting bodies of Chlorociboria aeruginascens are small, cup-shaped structures that range from 0.5 to 2 cm in diameter. They are often found in clusters on decaying wood, such as fallen branches or logs. The color is typically a vibrant green, although it can vary in intensity.
Habitat:
Green Wood Cup fungi are saprobic, meaning they get nourishment from decomposing dead organic waste. They are typically seen on decaying hardwoods like oak, beech, and maple.
Edibility:
Chlorociboria aeruginascens is not considered toxic, but it is not typically consumed due to its small size and lack of culinary value.
Uses:
The striking color of Green Wood Cup fungi has made them popular among woodworkers and artisans for use in decorative woodworking and the production of stained glass. The fungi are often used to dye wood and other materials.
Similar Species:
Several other species of cup fungi can be greenish. Accurate identification of Chlorociboria aeruginascens often requires microscopic examination of spores and other features.
Green elf cup mushrooms
Green Elf Cup mushrooms, scientifically known as Chlorociboria aeruginascens, are a species of fungus known for their stunning green color.
Appearance:
The fruiting bodies of Chlorociboria aeruginascens are small, cup-shaped structures that typically measure 0.5 to 2 cm in diameter. They are often found growing in clusters on decaying wood, such as fallen branches or logs. The color is a vibrant green, although it can vary in intensity and may fade with age.
Habitat:
Green Elf Cup mushrooms are saprobic, meaning they get nourishment from decaying dead organic materials. They are frequently found on decaying hardwoods, including oak, beech, and maple.
Edibility:
While Chlorociboria aeruginascens is not considered toxic, it is not typically consumed due to its small size and lack of culinary value.
Uses:
The striking color of Green Elf Cup mushrooms has made them popular among woodworkers and artisans for use in decorative woodworking and the production of stained glass. The fungi are often used to dye wood and other materials.
Similar Species:
Several other species of cup fungi can be greenish. Accurate identification of Chlorociboria aeruginascens often requires microscopic examination of spores and other features.
Read more about the Pink Oyster Mushrooms, The Ultimate Guide here.