Contents
Cherry mushroom (lat. Clitopilus prunulus) is a representative of the lamellar group. In some publications, it is called the common clitopilus, you can also find other names: cherry, cherry. This is a hat mushroom, outwardly similar to a chanterelle, little known to lovers of quiet hunting and scares away by its similarity to poisonous specimens.
What does a succulent mushroom look like
According to the description, the succulent mushroom (shown in the photo) is white and has a powdery smell. The characteristic aroma is explained by the presence of the aldehyde trans-2-nonenal in the tissues. Due to the fact that there are many related species, the classification is difficult.
Cap Description
The mushroom cap of the pods (pictured) has the following characteristics:
- diameter 4-10 cm;
- smooth dry surface, in wet weather it acquires a slight stickiness and shine;
- in shape resembles a regular circle;
- convex in young, flat in old. Often forms a funnel, which resembles chanterelles;
- young specimens are characterized by strongly tucked edges, for old specimens this feature is less pronounced;
- color can be different shades of white, it all depends on the place and growing conditions;
- zonal rings are absent;
- the flesh is elastic and fleshy, does not change color when cut, but darkens when pressed.
The spore-bearing layer is presented in the form of thin and frequent plates, acquiring a pink tint during the ripening period, as well as with aging.
Description of the leg
You can distinguish a mushroom from its other species, which are not always edible, by the stem (pictured). Its color is the same as that of the hat. It can be curved, the length ranges from 3 to 9 cm. General characteristics:
- the shape of the stem is cylindrical, even at the base, and slightly expanded closer to the cap;
- spore-bearing plates descend on the cherry stem;
- the pulp is dense;
- the surface is velvety, tender;
- young specimens are pubescent.
Where and how to grow
Based on the name, cherry (cherry) is found in the place of growth of pink flowers: cherries, plums, pears and apple trees. These are the best reference points when looking for them. Podcherry grows well next to light broad-leaved trees (oak, beech).
Podcherry grows in vegetable gardens, orchards, and is found in meadows. May form small groups, but often found single specimens. The collection period lasts from mid-July and ends in October. The cherry disappears with the onset of the first cold snap.
Clitopilus prunulus grows in acidic or acidified soils. If the soil is neutral or alkaline, then it is almost impossible to find a cherry.
The zone of growth is the entire European temperate zone.
Icherries have learned to grow artificially on tree trunks or on special farms (for sale). In shopping centers they are called oyster mushrooms. They differ from real pods in the light color of the hat.
Edible mushroom or not
Mushrooms are used as food for:
- fresh after boiling;
- for cooking second courses (stewing);
- as a filling for baking;
- for the preparation of sauces and aromatic seasonings;
- for drying, pickling and marinating.
Podcherry is considered a delicacy in Europe. It is rich in phosphorus compounds (up to 45%), which are necessary for the human body.
The harvested crop is dried. Soak the mushrooms for an hour before use. Cherry has a pleasant taste, serves as a good addition to dishes.
Extracts of this fungus are used in medicine as an anticoagulant. Recommended for people with increased blood clotting and those who suffer from thrombosis.
Twins and their differences
The differences between all relatives and cherries are insignificant, therefore, when picking mushrooms, they are very difficult to notice. Poisonous counterparts that pose a serious health hazard:
Serophyllium bitter
The flesh is very bitter (according to the name), there are concentric cracks on the cap. Poisonous, poses a threat to life.
Entoloma poisonous
The mushroom is poisonous. It differs from cherry in the location of the plates on the stem. In entoloma they are much higher.
Waxy talker
The only difference is that there are no zonal rings, which is especially noticeable at high humidity. Some sources point to the pink tint of the plates as a landmark of a poisonous mushroom, but this sign is not always true.
The differences are rather vague, which should serve as a caution to inexperienced mushroom pickers. A careful study of the photo and description of the boletus mushroom will help to avoid poisoning.
Conclusion
Cherry mushroom is harvested in environmentally safe places. The territory of quiet hunting should not be located near highways and enterprises. Only young specimens that have not yet accumulated toxins should be collected. Carefully inspect the plates, stem and cap of the mushroom. This will prevent poisonous twins from entering the basket.