Mushroom Monday: Tricholoma saponaceum

Mushroom Monday: Tricholoma saponaceum

Tricholoma saponaceum is not the flashiest mushroom in the woods, but it’s one that experienced mushroom watchers learn to spot. Known for its strange, soap-like smell, this mushroom turns up in many forested parts of North America and Europe. It’s a member of the large and variable Tricholoma genus, which also includes Tricholoma terreum (Grey Knight), Tricholoma vaccinum, and Tricholoma equestre (Yellow Knight).

Not always easy to recognize

One of the biggest challenges with Tricholoma saponaceum is that it doesn’t look the same every time you see it. The cap can range in color from grayish to greenish to brown, sometimes with a hint of yellow. It’s usually dry and smooth, though it may appear more uneven or even have some cracks as it ages. The cap shape also changes over time, beginning convex and eventually becoming flatter or irregular.

Its gills are white to pale yellow and are often notched where they attach to the stem. These gills can discolor as the mushroom ages, especially where bruised. The stem is typically pale but may show greenish or grayish tones and can discolor or bruise brown.

That strange scent

This mushroom is most famous for its unusual odor. Many people say it smells like soap—hence the species name saponaceum, from the Latin for soap. Some even describe the smell as chemical or unpleasant. This scent is an important identifying feature.

A forest dweller

Tricholoma saponaceum is mycorrhizal, meaning it forms a beneficial relationship with trees. It grows on the ground, either alone or in groups, and appears most often under conifers or hardwoods. You’re most likely to spot it in summer or fall.

A mushroom to watch but not to eat

While this mushroom is not known to be deadly, it is not considered edible. Some sources suggest it may cause stomach upset. Its unpleasant odor and inconsistent appearance make it one to appreciate from a distance rather than on your plate.

Part of a bigger picture

Tricholoma saponaceum reminds us how much variation can exist within a single genus. With its odd smell, variable colors, and forest associations, it fits right in with the other species we’ve covered in this diverse group. If you’re interested in learning more about Tricholoma mushrooms, don’t miss our posts on Tricholoma terreum, Tricholoma vaccinum, and Tricholoma equestre.

If you found this information about Tricholoma saponaceum helpful, check out our other posts on our TrueTreeTalk blog, including our Mushroom Monday posts. Follow us on Facebook to keep up with these and other posts. Check out our list of blog posts grouped by topic for more to read.  Also, follow us on LinkedIn for industry-related posts.

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