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The smelly raincoat is a common species of the Champignon family. Its characteristic feature is the dark color of the fruiting body and curved spikes on the surface. In addition, the mushroom exudes a peculiar smell, reminiscent of lighting gas, for which it received its name. In official reference books, it is listed as Lycoperdon nigrescens or Lycoperdon montanum.
Description of stinky raincoat
It is characterized by a non-standard shape of the fruiting body, so the hat and leg of the smelly raincoat are a single whole. The surface is brown and densely studded with drooping spines that fit tightly together and thus form stellate clusters. The shade of the growths is much darker than the main tone.
The smelly raincoat has a pear-shaped reverse shape, narrowed down. The upper part is thickened, reaches 1-3 cm in diameter. The height is 1,5-5 cm. When ripe, spikes fall from the surface, leaving a light honeycomb pattern on a brown background. When ripe, a small hole appears at the top through which the spores come out.
Outwardly, a smelly raincoat resembles a fleecy bump
The flesh of young specimens is white, hard. Subsequently, it acquires an olive-brown hue, which indicates the maturation of the spores. The lower part is elongated narrowed and resembles a leg. The spores of this species are spherical brown, their size is 4-5 microns.
Where and how to grow
This mushroom can be found in coniferous and mixed forests. It grows mainly in groups near spruces. Sometimes it can be found in deciduous plantings, which is extremely rare. Prefers soils rich in organic matter and with a high level of acidity.
Distributed in Europe and Central Our Country.
Is the mushroom edible or not?
The smelly raincoat is inedible. It can not be eaten both fresh and after processing. Even young specimens with light flesh are unsuitable for food, unlike other relatives of this family. However, given the characteristic smell of the mushroom, it is unlikely that anyone would think of collecting it.
Twins and their differences
This mushroom is similar to other members of its family. To be able to distinguish between them, it is necessary to study the characteristic features.
Similar twins:
- Raincoat pearl. The fruit body in young specimens is warty, light in color. The spikes are straight and elongated. As it matures, the surface becomes bare and becomes brown-buff. In addition, the pulp has a pleasant smell. This species is considered edible, however, only young specimens should be collected. Its official name is Lycoperdon perlatum.
Due to its snow-white color, it is not difficult to find this species in the forest.
- The raincoat is black. The fruit body is initially white, and then – a light brown hue. The flesh of young specimens is light, and when ripe, the spores become red-brown. The spines on the surface are elongated. With a slight physical impact, the growths easily fall off and expose the surface. The mushroom is considered edible as long as its flesh remains light. The official name is Lycoperdon echinatum.
This double features elongated spikes that resemble hedgehog quills.
Conclusion
A smelly raincoat is of no interest to mushroom pickers. This species deserves attention due to the unusual shape of the fruiting body. It will not be difficult to distinguish it from edible relatives by the repulsive smell.
