The asparagus fungus

Shaggy Inkcap (Coprinus comatus)
Found on 29.09. 2020

One of my very favourite edible mushrooms.

Synonyms are also asparagus mushroom

A wonderful tasty edible mushroom. But there are so many things to consider:

The mushroom is very perishable and therefore not marketable.

You should only mushrooms that are still closed at the bottom of the style and pure white. If dark spots appear, autolysis has already started (self-decomposition) and then the mushroom is no longer edible.

Autolysis always starts from the bottom up. Black spots in the upper part are instead quite normal. It is advisable to collect this mushroom at the very end and always transport it above the other mushrooms, as it is very, very sensitive and spoils after just a few hours.

However, the mushroom can also be frozen, but loses flavour in the process – always bear in mind that frozen mushrooms must NEVER be thawed, but only processed when frozen

In earlier times, the mushroom was also used to make ink by mixing the liquid that came out during autolysis with gum arabic, hence the name.

It can be found on nutrient-rich meadows, pastures, in parks or also on forest edges.

Furthermore, the mushroom is also considered a medicinal mushroom in “naturopathy” and in “traditional Chinese medicine”.

When I am lucky enough to find it, I simply prepare it – carefully cleaned with a brush – fried in butter (without any other spices) and enjoy it on a simple buttered bread. An incomparable delight!

Risk of confusion:
This mushroom can be confused with the Magpie Inkcap. Experienced mushroom pickers, however, will recognise the differences immediately. The Shaggy Inkcap is generally considered a beginner’s mushroom and is relatively easy to identify.

Shaggy Inkcap, good edible mushroom, Kräuterzauberin, Nicole Weimert

Shaggy Inkcap and Common Puffball

Important!

Here too, as always:

The mushrooms presented here and their description NEVER represent a food release!!!! Please always consult a mushroom expert if you cannot determine a mushroom 100%! Because even 99% certainty can be fatal!!!