Content
Spring entoloma (Entoloma vernum) is one of 40 species of the Entoloma family of the genus Entoloma. It has a second name: Spring rosette.
The name determines the time of growth of fruiting bodies - early spring or the first days of summer. Entoloma has a short life span, so it is impossible to find the mushroom at other times of the year.
Description of Spring Entoloma
It is imperative to know the characteristics of the appearance of the mushroom. A description of each part and a photo of the spring entoloma will be of great help in this.
Description of the cap
The mushroom cap is difficult to confuse with other species. It has a characteristic cone shape with a small tubercle located in the center.
It does not have a permanent color, the color varies from gray to black-brown, sometimes with a tint of olive. The diameter of the cap is no more than 5-6 cm. In young entolomas, the edge of the cap is turned up.
The pulp is either white or brownish in color and has no taste or smell.
The plates are attached to the stem or free, wavy, wide. At first they are pale gray in color, then they become with a reddish tint. Spore powder is pink.
Description of the leg
The stem of the spring Entoloma mushroom is fibrous, slightly thickened near the base. It may be lighter than the cap or one tone. The length of the leg is 3-8 cm, the diameter is 0.3-0.5 cm. In old specimens it reaches a thickness of 1 cm. There is no ring.
Is the mushroom edible or not?
Scientists from different countries claim that the spring Entoloma is poisonous. The fruiting body contains toxins that disrupt the functioning of the nervous system. Symptoms of poisoning are noticeable 30 minutes after consuming Entoloma.
Where and how does it grow
It prefers sandy soil; you can often find Entoloma on forest edges where there is coniferous litter. Less often in the depths of the forest. They grow in groups of 3-5 pieces.
The growing region is very large - throughout the entire territory of the Russian Federation, right up to the regions of the Far East.
Doubles and their differences
Based on its external characteristics, the spring one can be confused with the silky Entoloma (Entolomasericeum).
But this species is very rare; it is almost never found in the regions of Russia. It is considered a conditionally edible mushroom. The main difference is the growth time. The mushroom appears in August and grows until the end of September, when it can no longer be found in the spring. Therefore, you can only make a mistake without having information about the species.
The second double is Entoloma clypeatum.
Edible mushroom, fruiting period from mid-May to September. Prefers mixed or deciduous forests and orchards. Outwardly very similar to spring. Therefore, lovers of this mushroom should be careful. The species grow at the same time and are almost identical in appearance. Sadovaya is characterized by a faint floury odor.
Fiberwort (Inocyberimosa) can also be confused due to ignorance.
The difference is the color of the mushroom and the plates (slightly red). The species is poisonous, with very unappetizing characteristics. Reminds me of a toadstool. Thanks to this, lovers of “silent hunting” avoid fiber.
A visual video to help you remember the appearance of the mushroom:
Conclusion
Spring entoloma has a limited fruiting period and a very unappetizing appearance. If you encounter a specimen that matches the description and photo, it is better to avoid it.
