The holidays are almost here and that means the time for fungi is upon us! This winter, try some of these delicious and descriptive mushrooms that you may have never tried before.
[Related Article: 7 Common Mushrooms In Georgia]
1. Morels
Morels are a common mushroom in Virginia that can be found in the springtime. These mushrooms have a distinctive shape, with a hollow stem and a cap that is attached at the top. Morels are considered a delicacy by many, and can be cooked in a variety of ways.
Morels can be found in woods, fields, and even your backyard if you’re lucky. They typically grow near dead or dying trees, as they are decomposers.
These mushrooms are usually an early sign of spring, appearing after the last frost. The best time to look for morels is in the morning, when the sun is just starting to come up.
If you’re lucky enough to find some morels, make sure you cook them before eating. Morels can contain harmful toxins if they are not cooked properly. One of the best ways to enjoy morels is to sauté them in butter with some garlic.
You can also add them to soups or stews for extra flavor. However you choose to eat them, enjoy these delicious mushrooms while you can!
2. Chanterelles
Chanterelles are one of the most common mushrooms in Virginia. They can be found in woods, fields, and even your backyard! These mushrooms have a distinct shape, with a curved cap and ridged surface.
Chanterelles have a light yellow to orange color, and they often have a fruity smell.
These mushrooms are a great addition to any meal! Chanterelles can be sauteed, grilled, or even eaten raw. They pair well with meats and other vegetables, making them a versatile ingredient.
When cooking chanterelles, be sure to clean them thoroughly first. Dirt and debris can easily get trapped in the ridges on the surface of the mushroom.
If you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious mushroom to add to your next meal, look no further than the chanterelle!
3. Oyster Mushrooms
Oyster mushrooms are a common type of mushroom found in Virginia. These mushrooms typically have a white or cream-colored cap with dark gills on the underside. Oyster mushrooms can be found growing on trees, logs, or stumps in wooded areas.
These mushrooms are popular among foragers because they are easy to identify and usually grow in large clusters. Oyster mushrooms can be eaten raw, cooked, or pickled. They have a mild flavor that is often compared to seafood.
If you find oyster mushrooms while out foraging, be sure to properly identify them before consuming. Some lookalikes, such as the false oyster mushroom, can be poisonous. When in doubt, consult a field guide or an expert before eating any wild mushrooms.
4. Witches’ Butter
Witches’ Butter is a common mushroom found in Virginia. This mushroom gets its name from its slippery, slimy texture that is reminiscent of butter. Witches’ Butter can be found growing on tree stumps, logs, or dead leaves on the ground.
This type of mushroom is yellow or orange in color and has a rounded shape.
Witches’ Butter is edible, but not particularly tasty. This mushroom is often used in soups or stews to add flavor and thickening power. If you do decide to eat Witches’ Butter, be sure to cook it first as eating raw mushrooms can cause stomach upset.
5. Lion’s Mane
Lion’s Mane is a common mushroom in Virginia that can be found growing on hardwood trees. This mushroom is white or cream-colored and has a shaggy appearance, hence its name.
Lion’s Mane is edible and has a taste similar to crab meat. This mushroom can be cooked in various ways, such as sauteed, grilled, or roasted.
6. Parasol Mushroom
The Parasol Mushroom is a very common mushroom in Virginia. It is easily recognizable due to its large size and distinctive shape. The Parasol Mushroom can grow up to 10 inches in diameter and has a broad, umbrella-like cap.
This mushroom can be found in woods, fields, and gardens all over Virginia.
The Parasol Mushroom is edible and is often used in cooking. However, it should be noted that this mushroom can cause stomach upset if consumed in large quantities.
If you are planning on eating Parasol Mushrooms, it is best to cook them first. When cooked, they have a mild flavor and can be used in a variety of dishes.
7. Jack O’Lantern Mushroom
The Jack O’Lantern Mushroom is a very common mushroom in Virginia. This mushroom gets its name from its orange color and its resemblance to a jack-o-lantern.
This mushroom is poisonous to humans, but it is not deadly. If ingested, this mushroom can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. This mushroom should not be eaten under any circumstances.
8. Destroying Angel
The Destroying Angel is a common mushroom in Virginia that can be found in woodlands and fields. This mushroom gets its name from the fact that it is highly poisonous and can cause severe gastrointestinal illness or even death if ingested.
The Destroying Angel has a white cap with a smooth surface, and the stem is also white. This mushroom typically grows in clusters, and each individual mushroom can reach up to 6 inches in diameter.
If you come across the Destroying Angel mushroom, it is important not to touch it or ingest it in any way. If you think you may have ingested this mushroom, it is important to seek medical attention immediately as the toxins can cause serious illness or death.
If you are out hiking or foraging in Virginia, be sure to familiarize yourself with this mushroom and others that are poisonous so that you can avoid them.
9. Deathcap
The deathcap is a common mushroom in Virginia. This mushroom gets its name from the fact that it is very poisonous and can cause death if consumed. The deathcap looks similar to other mushrooms, so it is important to be able to identify it correctly.
This mushroom has a white cap with a brownish center. The gills on the underside of the cap are also white. The stem of the deathcap is white and may have small scales on it.
This mushroom grows in wooded areas in late summer and fall. If you see this mushroom, do not touch it or eat it!
10. Deadly Galerina
Of the many mushrooms that grow in Virginia, there are some that are more dangerous than others. The Deadly Galerina is one such mushroom. This fungi grows in woodlands and often appears after heavy rains.
It can be mistaken for other, harmless mushrooms, but the Deadly Galerina is very poisonous. If ingested, it can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and liver failure. In severe cases, it can even be fatal.
If you’re mushroom hunting in Virginia, be sure to avoid the Deadly Galerina!
Conclusion
In conclusion, these are the ten most common mushrooms in Virginia. Some of them are edible and some of them are not. Be sure to do your research before consuming any wild mushrooms, as some can be deadly.
If you suspect that you have ingested a poisonous mushroom, seek medical help immediately.
