Content
Cordyceps gray-ash is a rare representative of the Sporynev family. This forest dweller grows on insect larvae from August to October and has an unattractive appearance. Edibility has not been identified, so when meeting this specimen, it is better not to risk your health and pass by.
What Cordyceps gray-ash looks like
Cordyceps reaches a height of 8 cm, has a small, rounded cap with a diameter of no more than 50 mm. The dirty gray, dark brown or lilac-black surface is pimply-rough, with projections of yellow perithecia. They are finely pubescent, about 20 mm long.
The twisted and twisted thin leg is colored light and dark brown.The color is uneven, it is darker at the base, and becomes light gray closer to the cap. The pulp is elastic, without mushroom smell and taste.
Where do cordyceps grey-ash grow?
Grows on grass or soil in single specimens or small families. It begins to bear fruit from July to September. Reproduction occurs in an original way: the species parasitizes on flies, caterpillars, larvae and ants. When reproducing, the spores land on the fleecy surface of their victim and grow inside the body. As a result, she quickly dies, and her body begins to serve as a home in which mycelial hyphae develop.
Is it possible to eat cordyceps grey-ashy?
Edibility has not been determined. Since mushrooms have an unattractive appearance and they parasitize insects, this representative has no fans.
How to distinguish gray-ash Cordyceps
This specimen, like any inhabitant of the mushroom kingdom, has brothers:
- Military - a medicinal, inedible representative of the forest kingdom. It can be recognized by its club-shaped fruiting body and long, thin, twisted stalk. The color of the fruiting body depends on weather conditions and the place of growth; the color contains all shades of orange. The pulp is fibrous, odorless and tasteless. Breeds on insects and larvae in southern Russia and the tundra. It has found wide application in oriental medicine. Decoctions and infusions are made from the fruiting body. They help with cancer and cardiovascular diseases, during fatigue and physical exertion.
- Ophioglossoid - an inedible mushroom, light brown or red in color. A rare species, it grows on mushrooms that grow underground. They bear fruit singly or in small groups from the end of July until the first frost.
Conclusion
Cordyceps gray-ash is an inedible, rare representative of the mushroom kingdom. It reproduces on the body of insects and begins to bear fruit from August to late autumn. Since the species has a medicinal double, it is necessary to read the description in detail, view photos and videos.
