Coprinus comatus

Foto © Marco Floriani - Maso Postel (Pergine Valsugana, TN), VII.1990

Coprinus comatus

(Müll. : Fr.) Pers.

Coprinus comatus (the 'lawyer's wig') is one of the few edible species that even an absolute beginner can instantly recognize in the field. Its peculiar shape, with the very long, almost cylindrical, white and shaggy cap, which almost completely conceals the stipe, is rather unique among gilled mushrooms. Also the ecology of this species is very curious: Coprinus comatus grows very often on the side of the roads, on loose soil, frequently also in city parks. When it grows in polluted areas (which unfortunately is often the case), its consumption is not recommended; otherwise it is a very good edible fungus. (m.f.)