Lyophyllum decastes


Lyophyllum decastes, commonly known as the fried chicken mushroom, is an edible species of fungus in the family Lyophyllaceae that grows in clusters on disturbed ground, with a faintly radish-like taste.

Appearance

Gills are white but may yellow slightly with age. The firm flesh remains white on exposure.
L. decastes similar in appearance to the toxic species Lyophyllum loricatum, Lyophyllum connatum, Clitocybe dilatata, and those of the Entoloma genus.

Ecology

Growing in dense, even huge clusters on the ground, L. decastes is usually found where the ground has been disturbed such as roadbeds, gravel, paths, landscaping areas, and sometimes in woods.

Range

Prolific in summer and fall until spring on the U.S. West Coast, it is widely distributed in North America.

Edibility

The species is edible when cooked. When consumed uncooked may cause liver failure, nausea, and diarrhea.