Are Mushrooms Growing On Trees Edible? A Guide to Arboreal Fungi
*The simple answer is that some mushrooms growing on trees are edible, some are not, and some are deadly. Positive identification is *absolutely essential* before consuming any wild mushroom, especially those found on trees.*
Introduction: The Kingdom of Arboreal Fungi
The world of fungi is vast and fascinating, and a significant portion of it finds its home on trees. From the humble bracket fungi clinging to decaying logs to the morels occasionally popping up at the base of an elm, arboreal mushrooms (those that grow on trees) offer a diverse array of species. However, the sheer variety also means that identifying edible mushrooms growing on trees requires a keen eye, extensive knowledge, and a healthy dose of caution. Misidentification can lead to serious illness or even death, so understanding the nuances of mushroom identification is paramount before considering a foraged feast. This article serves as a guide to navigating this intriguing, but potentially perilous, landscape.
Understanding Mushroom Identification: Key Characteristics
Identifying mushrooms, especially those on trees, is a complex process. It’s not enough to simply look at a picture and assume you have a match. Multiple characteristics must be considered together. Here are some key features to examine:
- Cap: Size, shape, color, texture (smooth, scaly, sticky), presence of gills or pores.
- Gills/Pores: Attachment to the stem (free, attached, decurrent), color, spacing.
- Stem: Length, thickness, color, presence of a ring (annulus) or volva (cup-like structure at the base).
- Spore Print: The color of the spores, which can be obtained by placing the cap on white and black paper.
- Odor: Some mushrooms have a distinctive smell that can aid in identification.
- Substrate: The type of tree the mushroom is growing on. Some mushrooms are specific to certain tree species.
- Season: The time of year the mushroom appears.
Remember, no single characteristic is foolproof. It’s the combination of these features that allows for accurate identification.
Edible Mushrooms Often Found on Trees
While comprehensive identification requires expert knowledge, knowing some common edible species that grow on trees is a good starting point.
- Oysters (Pleurotus spp.): These are generally safe and easy to identify. They have a distinctive shelf-like shape and grow on decaying hardwoods.
- Chicken of the Woods (Laetiporus sulphureus): A vibrant orange and yellow bracket fungus with a meaty texture. Grows primarily on hardwoods.
- Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus): A distinctive white, shaggy mushroom that resembles a lion’s mane. Grows on hardwoods.
- Enoki (Flammulina velutipes): This mushroom can look very different when wild. It’s often found on elms or poplars in winter.
Table: Comparing Edible Tree Mushrooms
| Mushroom | Tree Type | Season | Key Features | Edibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oyster | Decaying Hardwoods | Spring, Fall | Shelf-like shape, white to brown color, decurrent gills | Excellent |
| Chicken of Woods | Hardwoods | Summer, Fall | Bright orange and yellow, bracket-like, pore surface | Excellent (some may experience gastric upset) |
| Lion’s Mane | Hardwoods | Late Summer, Fall | White, shaggy appearance, tooth-like spines | Excellent |
| Enoki | Elms, Poplars | Winter | Small, velvety stem, small cap, often grows in clusters | Good |
Poisonous Look-Alikes: A Cautionary Tale
The most dangerous aspect of mushroom foraging is the existence of poisonous look-alikes. Many edible mushrooms have toxic counterparts that can cause severe illness or death. For example, Jack O’Lantern mushrooms can be mistaken for Chicken of the Woods, but are toxic and cause gastrointestinal distress. Always be sure to check with an experienced forager or expert before consuming any wild mushroom.
Ethical Considerations for Foraging
Foraging should be done responsibly and ethically. Consider the following guidelines:
- Obtain permission: Always get permission from the landowner before foraging on private property.
- Identify correctly: Be 100% certain of your identification before consuming any wild mushroom. When in doubt, throw it out.
- Harvest sustainably: Only take what you need and leave plenty of mushrooms behind to ensure the species’ survival. Avoid disturbing the surrounding environment.
- Respect the ecosystem: Be mindful of other plants and animals in the area. Avoid trampling vegetation or disturbing wildlife.
- Spread awareness: Educate others about responsible foraging practices.
Expert Tips for Safe Mushroom Foraging
- Start with easily identifiable species: Begin by learning to identify common and easily recognizable edible mushrooms like Oysters or Chicken of the Woods.
- Join a local mycological society: These groups offer guided forays and workshops that can help you learn from experienced mushroom hunters.
- Use multiple identification resources: Consult field guides, online databases, and expert opinions to confirm your identification.
- Take a spore print: This is a crucial step in identification, as spore color can help distinguish between similar species.
- Document your findings: Take detailed notes and photographs of each mushroom you find, including the substrate, location, and date.
- When in doubt, throw it out: This is the golden rule of mushroom foraging. Never consume a mushroom if you are not 100% certain of its identity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Eat Any Mushroom I Find Growing on a Pine Tree?
No, you cannot. While some edible mushrooms, like certain Suillus species, are associated with pine trees, many others are toxic or inedible. Never assume that a mushroom is safe to eat based solely on the type of tree it’s growing on.
How Can I Be Absolutely Sure a Mushroom is Edible?
There is no 100% foolproof method to guarantee edibility without expert confirmation. However, a combination of careful observation, spore print analysis, and comparison to reliable field guides can significantly increase your confidence. When possible, have your identification confirmed by an experienced mycologist.
What Should I Do If I Think I’ve Eaten a Poisonous Mushroom?
Seek immediate medical attention. Contact your local poison control center or go to the nearest emergency room. Bring a sample of the mushroom with you, if possible, for identification purposes.
Are All White Mushrooms Edible?
Absolutely not! The Destroying Angel (Amanita virosa), a deadly white mushroom, is a prime example of why you can’t judge edibility by color. Many edible mushrooms are white, but so are many poisonous ones. Precise identification based on all characteristics is key.
Is it Safe to Eat Mushrooms That Animals Have Been Eating?
No. Animals have different digestive systems and tolerances than humans. A mushroom that is harmless to an animal may be toxic to you. Never use animal consumption as an indicator of edibility.
Are Mushrooms Growing Near Roads or Industrial Areas Safe to Eat?
It is generally not advisable to eat mushrooms growing in these areas. Mushrooms can absorb pollutants from the soil, including heavy metals and other toxins. Contamination is a risk in urban or industrial environments.
What is a Spore Print and How Do I Take One?
A spore print is a crucial tool for mushroom identification. To take one, cut the stem off the cap and place the cap, gills-down or pore-surface down, on a piece of white and black paper. Cover it with a glass or bowl to maintain humidity, and leave it overnight. The spores will drop onto the paper, creating a print. The color of the print helps narrow down the possible species. Understanding and utilizing spore prints greatly aids in fungal identification.
Are There Any Apps That Can Accurately Identify Mushrooms?
While there are mushroom identification apps available, they should be used with extreme caution. These apps are not always accurate and should never be relied upon as the sole source of identification. Always confirm the app’s suggestion with a field guide and, ideally, an expert. Relying solely on an app is a dangerous practice.
How Do I Store Mushrooms That I’ve Foraged?
Store your foraged mushrooms in a paper bag in the refrigerator. Avoid plastic bags, which can trap moisture and cause the mushrooms to spoil quickly. Use your harvested mushrooms as soon as possible for optimal freshness.
Is Cooking All Mushrooms Before Eating Them Sufficient to Remove Toxins?
No. While cooking can deactivate some toxins, it does not eliminate all of them. Some poisonous mushrooms contain toxins that are heat-stable and remain dangerous even after cooking.
What Does “Decurrent Gills” Mean?
Decurrent gills refer to the way the gills attach to the stem. In decurrent gills, the gills run down the stem, rather than stopping abruptly at the point of attachment. This is a key characteristic to note when identifying mushrooms.
If a Mushroom Bruises Blue, Is It Safe to Eat?
Not necessarily. While some psilocybin-containing (psychoactive) mushrooms bruise blue, and some edible species can show a slight blue bruise, many toxic mushrooms also exhibit this characteristic. Blue bruising is not a reliable indicator of edibility and can be misleading. It’s best to avoid mushrooms that bruise unless you have complete certainty of their identification and are seeking psychoactive effects legally (where permitted).