7 Common Mushrooms Found in Colorado
Ahh, the fascinating world of fungi. In this post, we will be Investigating seven common mushrooms that can be found in Colorado. From the rugged Rocky Mountains to the arid plains, Colorado boasts an incredible variety of habitats, making it a haven for mushroom enthusiasts. Join us as we delve into the characteristics, habitats, and uses of these intriguing fungi that call Colorado home.
Amanita muscaria: Fly Agaric – a true enigma
A hallucinogenic marvel, yet toxic. These beauties can be found in Summit County and in locations on the Western Slope. The striking red cap, speckled with white spots, draws your gaze. The white stem beneath holds firm.
Appearance: Unmistakable red cap and white stripe (stem). Cap diameter: 2-12 inches.
Boletus edulis: King Bolete, Porcini – the culinary crown jewel
A gourmet’s delight! Nutty, earthy flavors abound. Italian cuisine sings its praises. These mushrooms can be found in many places around Colorado, and are abundant at higher elevations, from 7000-10000 feet. Look for these mushrooms growing around a stream with spruce or pine trees.
Appearance: Brown or tan cap, white or pale yellow pores, stout stem. Cap diameter? 2-10 inches.
Cantharellus cibarius: Chanterelle – a peppery surprise
A culinary gem, bursting with fruity and peppery notes. Rich in vitamins and minerals.
Chanterelles can be found in high-country areas above 10,500 feet, and are often found in similar areas to porcini mushrooms. Keep an eye out when venturing around streams in mixed conifer forest areas.
Appearance: Yellow to an orange colored cap, wavy edges, and forked gills grace the stem. Cap diameter: 1-5 inches.
Morchella spp.: Morels – the earthy delicacy
Sought after by foodies for their unique and earthy flavors. Morels also pack a punch of vitamins and minerals. Colorado features two varieties of Morels, yellow and black.
Morels can be found in the high country at elevations of 7000-9000 feet, but can also be found at the treeline. Look for mixed aspen and conifer clusters, and nearby streams. Your best luck will be in the spring after a period of high precipitation.
Appearance: Honeycomb-like cap, sponge-like features, hollow stem. Cap height: 1-4 inches.
Pleurotus ostreatus: Oyster Mushroom – the tender treat
Mild, slightly sweet; a culinary favorite, with potential cholesterol-lowering properties.
Oyster mushrooms can typically be found in lower elevations, growing on downed logs, stumps, and dead trees. Look for downed logs near streams or after a period of high precipitation.
Appearance: Fan-shaped cap, oyster-like, white, gray, or brown hues. Cap diameter: 2-8 inches.
Lactarius deliciosus: Saffron Milkcap – a green-stained delight
Edible, with a mild, slightly sweet taste. Orange or reddish cap, bruises a greenish color, depressed center.
Saffron milkcaps can be found in Colorado in late summer and early fall. They can be found growing around conifer trees after a period of precipitation.
Appearance: Orange gills, with a hollow stem. Cap diameter: 2-6 inches.
Coprinus comatus: Shaggy Mane – the inky marvel
Edible when young; a unique flavor experience. Beware the inky black liquid as it ages!
Shaggy Mane is not as commonly found as other mushrooms on this list, however, diligent foragers may have luck finding these mushrooms growing on roadsides, disturbed ground, and lawns. It is commonly found at elevations of 5000-7000 feet. The best time to find them is early and late summer into the fall.
Appearance: White, elongated, shaggy cap turns black. Cap height: 2-6 inches.
Caution! Identifying mushrooms can be treacherous; missteps may prove dangerous or fatal. Consult with experts or field guides before consuming wild mushrooms. Embrace the perplexity and burstiness in this world of fungi!
