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Stropharia Hornemann or Hornemann is a representative of the Strophariaceae family, which is characterized by the presence of a large membranous ring on the stem. The official name is Stropharia Hornemannii. You can meet in the forest infrequently, it grows in small groups of 2-3 copies.
What does Gornemann’s stropharia look like
Stropharia Gornemann belongs to the category of agaric fungi. Some mushrooms reach a large size. A characteristic difference is a specific smell, reminiscent of radish with the addition of mushroom notes.
Cap Description
The upper part of the fungus initially has the shape of a hemisphere, but as it matures, it flattens and acquires a characteristic smoothness. The diameter of the cap can reach from 5 to 10 cm. At the same time, its edges are wavy, slightly tucked. When touched, the surface feels sticky.
In young specimens, the upper part has a red-brown color with a violet tint, but in the process of growth, the tone changes to light gray. Also, at the beginning of growth, the reverse side of the cap is covered with a membranous white veil, which subsequently collapses.
On the underside, wide, frequent plates are formed, which grow to the stem with a tooth. Initially, they have a purple hue, and then darken significantly and acquire a gray-black tone.
Description of the leg
The lower part of Hornemann’s stropharia has a cylindrical curved shape, which tapers slightly at the base. The top of the leg is smooth, creamy yellow. At the bottom there are characteristic white flakes-scales that are inherent in this species. Its diameter is 1-3 cm. When cut, the flesh is dense, white.
Is the mushroom edible or not?
Stropharia Gornemann belongs to the category of conditionally edible mushrooms, as it does not contain toxins and is not hallucinogenic. Young specimens that do not yet have an unpleasant odor and characteristic bitterness can be used for food.
It should be consumed fresh after preliminary steaming for 20-25 minutes.
Where and how Hornemann’s stropharia grows
The active growth period lasts from August to mid-October. At this time, Gornemann’s stropharia can be found in mixed forests and conifers. She prefers to grow on stumps and rotting trunks.
In Our Country, this species can be found in the European part and Primorsky Krai.
Twins and their differences
According to its external features, Gornemann’s stropharia resembles forest mushroom. The main difference between the latter is the brown scales on the cap. Also, when broken, the flesh becomes pink. This species is edible, and regardless of the stage of ripening, it has a pleasant mushroom smell.
Conclusion
Gornemann’s stropharia is not of particular interest to mushroom pickers, despite its conditional edibility. This is due to the presence of a specific smell in adult specimens. Also, the nutritional value is very questionable, so many try to ignore the mushroom at the time of harvest, preferring the more valuable species that can be found at the end of the season.
