Matsutake
ExploreFungi
Matsutake
Tricholoma
Matsutake mushrooms are prized for their delicious taste! They grow under trees and are often found in forests.
Habitat: Forests
Appearance
The Matsutake has a sturdy, white to brownish cap that can be partly hidden under soil. Its thick white stem is covered by a veil, leaving a distinctive ring as it matures. The cap often has a unique, slightly fibrous surface.
KingdomFungiPhylumBasidiomycotaClassAgaricomycetesOrderAgaricalesFamilyTricholomataceaeGenusTricholoma
Category
FungiRarity
Rare
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Snaps
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Interesting facts
Finding Matsutake often requires a special nose and secret forest spots!
Its name means 'pine mushroom' because it loves growing near pine trees.
Matsutake mushrooms can be worth hundreds of dollars each!
Some people describe its unique smell as a mix of cinnamon and dirty socks!
Special abilities
Ability
Aromatic Beacon
Matsutake can release a powerful, unique spicy-cinnamon aroma that helps others find it and signals its presence underground.
Ability
Root Whisperer
Matsutake has a special connection with tree roots, sharing nutrients that helps both the fungus and the tree grow strong.
Ability
Subterranean Guardian
Matsutake often grows partially buried in the soil, protecting its delicate parts from harsh weather and hungry creatures.
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 association for nutrient exchange.
symbiotic with
Western Hemlock
Tsuga heterophylla
Often found growing in symbiosis with its roots.
symbiotic with
Konara Oak
Quercus serrata
Establishes a beneficial root connection in forests.
Traits
Fragrant Flower
Fragrant flowers emit a pleasant aroma, often to attract pollinators or for defense.
Spore Producing
Spore-producing organisms reproduce by releasing small, often single-celled, reproductive units called spores.
Edible
Edible plants are those parts of a plant that are considered safe for human consumption.
Spice
This human use trait indicates species from which spices are derived, used for flavoring, preserving food, or as aromatic agents.
Forest
Forest habitats are terrestrial environments dominated by dense tree cover, supporting a high diversity of plant and animal life.
Also known as
Matsutake Mushroom
Collections
Safety
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Do not pick or eat anything you find. Some plants and mushrooms can be harmful.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall is Matsutake?
10-25 cm
Is Matsutake edible?
edible
How big is Matsutake?
6-20 cm
Where is Matsutake usually found?
Forests
What does Matsutake grow on?
soil
When is Matsutake in season?
Fall
What color are Matsutake spores?
White
Snap Map
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