Shaggy scalycap

Pholiota squarrosa

A species of Scalycaps. Also known as Shaggy pholiota.

Typically, these fungi aggregate in clusters, thriving beneath aged broadleaf trees and on their remaining stumps. Their scientific designation, Pholiota squarrosa, accurately describes their 'scaly with upright scales' appearance. While occasionally confused with honey fungus due to their similar coloration, it's crucial to note that the shaggy scalycap is unequivocally inedible.

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Attributes Classification Toxicity Similar Mushrooms

Attributes of Shaggy scalycap

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Cap Diameter
4 - 12 cm
Height
6 - 15 cm
Cap
Cap 3 - 12 cm across; convex to flat to weakly umbonate; pale yellow to pale ocher; with scales
Cap Shape
Convex, Flat
Cap Surfaces
Fibrillose-scaly
Gills
Attached, decurrent; close, crowded; pale, greenish yellow, rusty brown
Gill Attachment
Attached
Stem
Stem 4 - 12 cm long, 1.5 cm thick; yellowish, brown to reddish brown; with scales
Stem Shapes
Cylindrical
Stem Surfaces
Scaly
Flesh
Tough; yellowish
Ring
With Ring
Spore Print Color
Brown
Odor
Mild, may have garlic-lemon undertones.
Body Color
BrownYellowRed
Flesh Bruises
The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.
Growth Form
Gregarious, Clustered
Nutrient Gathering
Saprophytic, Parasitic
Substrate
Wood of Living Trees, Dead Woods
You can find Shaggy scalycap by these plants
Quaking aspen, Willows, Ashes
Occurence Habitats
Deciduous Woodland, Coniferous Woodland, Mixed Woodland
Species Status
Widely distributed
Endangered Species
No

Scientific Classification of Shaggy scalycap

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Phylum
Club fungi
Class
Mushroom-forming fungi
Order
Gilled fungi
Family
Strophariaceae
Genus
Scalycaps
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Toxicity and Edibility of Shaggy scalycap

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Is Shaggy scalycap Toxic?

The scaly deceiver, often encountered in both broadleaf and needle-leaf forests during fall, is recognized by its dry, textured cap. Ingesting this mushroom can result in severe gastrointestinal distress for up to seven days, a slowed heart rate, reduced blood pressure, and possible neurological symptoms. Due to its detrimental health consequences, consumption is strongly discouraged.

Type of poisoning
Gastrointestinal
Toxic Severity
Moderate toxicity
Incubation Period
0.25-4 hours
Poisoning Symptoms
Intense digestive issues: including nausea, stomach cramps, vomiting, and diarrhea, which can persist for as long as a week. Some individuals may also experience a decreased heart rate and lowered blood pressure. Neurological effects can occur as well.

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