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Mushroom Monday: Tricholoma equestre (The Yellow Knight Mushroom)
Welcome back to Mushroom Monday! Today we’re exploring the bright and bold Tricholoma equestre, a mushroom known for its vivid color. This species is also referred to as Tricholoma auratum and Tricholoma flavovirens, and it carries several common names, including the Yellow Knight, the Canary Mushroom, and the Man on Horseback.
Let’s take a closer look at its features and where it can be found.
The Cap
The cap of Tricholoma equestre begins as a sticky, bright yellow-green dome and gradually transitions to a drier, browner surface as the mushroom matures. The brown coloration typically starts in the center of the cap and spreads outward toward the edges over time. Initially convex in shape, the cap often flattens as it ages. Older specimens may develop slightly upturned or wavy margins, adding to the distinctive look of the mature fruiting body. The cap usually measures between two and four inches across and has a smooth texture.
The Gills
The gills of this species are notched where they connect to the stem, a feature known as being sinuate. They are closely spaced and consistently yellow in color, often appearing vibrant and uniform. In many specimens, some of the gills are shorter than others, forming a layered, intricate appearance beneath the cap.
The Stem
The stem of Tricholoma equestre typically ranges from two to two and three-quarter inches tall. It can be fairly uniform in width from top to bottom, though some specimens may have a slightly swollen or wider base. The surface is generally smooth, though fine hairs may be present. A key identifying feature is the absence of a partial veil, which means the stem does not have a ring or annular structure.
Habitat and Distribution
Tricholoma equestre is widely distributed and can be found across North America, Europe, and Asia. It tends to grow in poor, sandy soils and is most commonly associated with pine forests. However, it may also be found in association with other trees such as birch and oak. This mushroom forms a mycorrhizal relationship with its host trees, meaning it grows in mutual connection with the roots of these species. It appears in summer and fall, and can be found growing alone, scattered with others, or in groups.
Similar Mushrooms
One species that may be confused with Tricholoma equestre is Entoloma luridum. This mushroom grows in similar environments but has some noticeable differences. Entoloma luridum is found primarily in the upper Midwest and the eastern parts of North America. One way to distinguish it is by its gills, which begin pale but turn a pinkish-brown hue as the mushroom matures.
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