Tricholoma matsutake
ExploreFungi
Tricholoma matsutake
Tricholoma matsutake
The Tricholoma matsutake, also known as the Matsutake mushroom, is a rare and highly prized fungus found in forests. Its spicy aroma and unique flavor make it a delicacy in many cuisines.
Habitat: Forests
Appearance
The Tricholoma matsutake has a thick, firm cap, typically reddish-brown with darker scales. Its sturdy stem is often covered by a partial veil, revealing creamy white gills underneath. This gives it a robust, earthy appearance, different from many slender mushrooms.
KingdomFungiPhylumBasidiomycotaClassAgaricomycetesOrderAgaricalesFamilyTricholomataceaeGenusTricholoma
Category
FungiRarity
Rare
Danger
3/5 · Moderate
Snaps
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Interesting facts
A single Matsutake mushroom can fetch hundreds of dollars!
Matsutake need very specific, healthy forest conditions to thrive naturally.
These forest treasures often hide beneath a thick blanket of pine needles.
They are so picky; scientists still struggle to grow them on farms.
Special abilities
Ability
Scent Seeker
Tricholoma matsutake releases a unique spicy, aromatic smell that helps animals find it and spread its spores.
Ability
Tree Tamer
It forms a special underground partnership with tree roots, sharing nutrients to help both grow strong.
Ability
Hidden Helper
Its vast underground network of threads helps transport water and minerals throughout the forest soil.
Measurements & details
- Height
- 10-25 cm
- Edibility
- edible
- Cap Diameter
- 6-20 cm
- Growth Substrate
- soil
- Season
- Fall
- Spore Color
- White
Ecological connections
symbiotic with
Japanese Red Pine
Pinus densiflora
Forms mycorrhizal partnership.
symbiotic with
Western Hemlock
Tsuga heterophylla
Shares nutrients with roots.
symbiotic with
Grand Fir
Abies grandis
Benefits from tree roots.
symbiotic with
Sitka Spruce
Picea sitchensis
Essential root companion.
Traits
Mycorrhizal
This trait describes a symbiotic relationship between a fungus and the roots of a plant, benefiting both organisms.
Fragrant Flower
Fragrant flowers emit a pleasant aroma, often to attract pollinators or for defense.
Edible
Edible plants are those parts of a plant that are considered safe for human consumption.
Symbiotic
Describes a relationship between two different species where they live in close association, often benefiting one or both.
Ancient Lineage
This trait signifies organisms belonging to a very old evolutionary group with ancestors dating back millions of years.
Forest
Forest habitats are terrestrial environments dominated by dense tree cover, supporting a high diversity of plant and animal life.
Also known as
No aliases listed yet.
Collections
Safety
Danger
3/5 · Moderate
Never pick or eat wild mushrooms without an adult who is an expert in mushroom identification.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall is Tricholoma matsutake?
10-25 cm
Is Tricholoma matsutake edible?
edible
How big is Tricholoma matsutake?
6-20 cm
Where is Tricholoma matsutake usually found?
Forests
What does Tricholoma matsutake grow on?
soil
When is Tricholoma matsutake in season?
Fall
What color are Tricholoma matsutake spores?
White
Snap Map
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