Content
The boletus or boletus boletus belongs to the Boletaceae family and is considered a close relative of the boletus. Its characteristic difference is that it has spores with a blunt end, but this can only be revealed using a microscope. In some sources, this species can be found as the pink-footed moss because of the color characteristics of the lower part. The official name of the species is Xerocomellus truncatus.
What do moss mushrooms look like?
This mushroom is characterized by the classic shape of the fruiting body, so its upper and lower parts are clearly visible. At the initial stage of growth, the cap has a convex shape, and as the moss flywheel matures, it becomes cushion-shaped.Its diameter does not exceed 15 cm, and its color varies from grayish-brown to chestnut. The surface is dry, felt-like to the touch and remains so even with high humidity. In overripe specimens, the cap may crack, forming a net-like pattern and exposing the flesh, which oxidizes and turns pink. The structure of the upper part is soft, loose, and in adult mushrooms it is cotton-like.
The hymenophore of the moss moss is tubular. Initially it is light in color, but as it ripens it acquires a greenish color. The internal tubules can descend along the stalk or adhere to it. The spores are spindle-shaped with a cut edge on one side. When ripe they become brownish-olive in color. Their size is 12–15 x 4.5–6 microns.
The leg grows up to 10 cm in length, in cross section its diameter is 2.5 cm. The shape is regular cylindrical, slightly narrowed at the base. The surface of the lower part is smooth, the flesh is solid fibrous. Its main color is yellow, but a pink tint is allowed.
Chaotically scattered red spots may appear in the upper part of the leg of the moss flywheel.
Where do moss mushrooms grow?
This species is not very common. It can be found in European countries and southern North America. In Russia, it is found in the Krasnodar and Stavropol Territories, and single finds have also been recorded in Western Siberia.
The mushroom prefers mixed and deciduous plantings. Grows singly and in small groups of 2-4 pieces.
Is it possible to eat moss mushrooms?
This species is considered conditionally edible, so it cannot be consumed fresh.The pulp has a sour taste without a characteristic mushroom smell. As they grow older, the leg acquires a hard consistency, so only the caps are suitable for food. Young specimens can be used entirely.
False doubles
The blunt-spore moss mushroom is similar in structure of the fruiting body and external features to some mushrooms. Therefore, in order to avoid mistakes when collecting, you need to study the characteristic differences between the twins.
Similar types:
- Mokhovik variegated or fissured. Edible mushroom of the fourth category. The cap is convex, fleshy, its diameter does not exceed 10 cm even in mature specimens. There is a network of cracks on the surface of the upper part. The color of the cap varies from cherry to brown-gray. The leg has the shape of a club. The pulp is light yellow in color and upon contact with air initially turns blue and then turns red. The official name is Xerocomellus chrysenteron.
The leg of this species is reddish with barely noticeable gray longitudinal streaks
- Gall mushroom. This species can only be confused with young flywheels. It is classified as inedible due to its strong bitterness, which only intensifies during heat treatment, as well as poisonous mushrooms. The cap is initially convex in shape and then flattens. Its surface always remains dry, the color is light brown. The leg is cylindrical, 10 cm long. The lower part has a creamy-ocher shade with a mesh pattern. The official name is Tylopilus felleu.
Gall fungus is never wormy
Collection rules
The fruiting period of the moss sporatum begins in the second half of July and lasts until the end of September. When collecting, preference should be given to young fruits, as their pulp is denser and has better taste.
You need to cut off the flywheel with a sharp knife without damaging the mycelium. This will allow the collection to be carried out annually in the same place.
Use
The moss mushroom is not particularly popular among mushroom pickers, since its taste is considered mediocre, and the pulp becomes slimy during heat treatment and loses its shape.
Before preparing this type, it is recommended to first boil it in salted water for 15-20 minutes, then drain the liquid. The moss mushroom can be pickled, and it is also recommended to prepare mushroom caviar on its basis.
Conclusion
The moss mushroom does not receive special attention from mushroom pickers, since its taste leaves much to be desired. This is also due to the fact that the fruiting period coincides with other more valuable species, so many lovers of quiet hunting give preference to them.
