Pine tree mushrooms are a diverse group of fungi that grow in association with pine trees. This guide focuses on the identification of three key species: Matsutake, Saffron Milk Caps, and Slippery Jacks. Understanding the critical identification features, habitat specifics, and seasonal growth patterns will help wild plant enthusiasts distinguish these edible mushrooms from poisonous lookalikes.
What are the Key Features of Matsutake Mushrooms?
- Cap: White with reddish-brown patches, 4-15 cm in diameter.
- Flesh: Firm, pale in the center, stained reddish by milk around the edge.
- Gills: White, attached to the stem.
- Stem: White, tapering to a point, with a fine, grey “podzol” soil around the base.
- Habitat: Found under conifers in nutrient-poor soils, especially in the Pacific Northwest.
- Seasonal Growth: Late summer and fall.
- Unique Traits: Spicy smell, firm texture, and the presence of podzol soil.
How to Identify Saffron Milk Caps Mushrooms?
- Cap: Orange-red, 4-10 cm in diameter.
- Flesh: Firm, pale orange, and milky when cut.
- Gills: Orange, attached to the stem.
- Stem: Orange, tapering to a point.
- Habitat: Found under pine trees in well-drained soils.
- Seasonal Growth: Late summer and fall.
- Unique Traits: Milky flesh and orange color.
What are the Characteristics of Slippery Jacks Mushrooms?
- Cap: Brown, 3-10 cm in diameter.
- Flesh: Soft, pale yellow.
- Gills: Yellow, attached to the stem.
- Stem: Yellow, sticky.
- Habitat: Found under pine trees in moist soils.
- Seasonal Growth: Late summer and fall.
- Unique Traits: Sticky stem and soft flesh.
What are the Key Features to Distinguish Edible from Poisonous Pine Tree Mushrooms?
- Visual Cues: Pay attention to cap shape, color, and size, as well as stem characteristics.
- Spore Print Colors: White spore prints for Matsutake and Saffron Milk Caps, yellow for Slippery Jacks.
- Chemical Tests: None applicable for these species.
Where Can You Find These Pine Tree Mushrooms?
- Matsutake: Pacific Northwest, especially British Columbia.
- Saffron Milk Caps: Widespread in pine forests across North America.
- Slippery Jacks: Common in eastern North America, especially in the Appalachian region.
References
- Matsutake Pine Guide by West Coast Forager: A detailed guide to identifying Matsutake mushrooms, including their habitat, seasonal growth, and key features.
- Common Mushrooms That Grow on Trees by Forager Chef: An overview of various mushrooms that grow on trees, including oyster mushrooms, Enokitake, and Pheasant Back.
- Mushrooms under Pine Trees by A. Sergeev: A collection of photographs showcasing various mushrooms found under pine trees, including bolete mushrooms and coral mushrooms.