Black Trumpet
Craterellus fallax
Do not eat any fungi that has not been properly identified by a qualified professional, some are DEADLY when ingested. All edible wild fungi MUST be cooked.
Black Trumpets are unique mushrooms that grow throughout the U.S. and Canada. Their funnel shape and coloring make them easy to identify and there are no toxic lookalikes. These are sought-after mushrooms due to their fabulous taste yet can be difficult to find because they often blend into the landscape. They often have growth spurts when the weather conditions suit them. Microclimates tend to play a prominent role in their growth.
Type
None.
Distinguishing Features
The black trumpet is common and easily recognized but it can be hard to find due to their size. The fruiting body does not have a clearly defined cap and stem. They are tubular at the top becoming deeply vase-shaped. The upper edge is rolled under when young and often partly rolled under in maturity. The black trumpet is hollow and has thin flesh. On the upper inner surface they are pale to dark gray; minutely scaly with blackish-tipped scales over a paler, grayish or grayish brown base color. The margins often black. Black trumpets can be smooth or very shallowly wrinkled. They are generally small with the tops measuring 1-5 cm (.39 to 1.75") wide. They grow alone, scattered, gregariously, or in loose clusters. Some people refer to as the Craterellus fallax being Craterellus cornucopioides. The genetic difference is accompanied by a difference in the color of the spore print; Craterellus fallax has a pale pinkish to an orange-like print, while the native European Craterellus cornucopioides has a white print. Both are edible.
Height
These fungi grow anywhere from 3 to 9cm (1.5 to 3.5") tall.
Habitat
This is a mycorrhizal fungi that is associated mainly with oaks but can occur with other hardwoods. They are often found in damp, mossy areas.
Spore Print
Pale pinkish orange.
Season
Black trumpets are found mid-summer through autumn depending on location.
Gills
No gills.
Edibility
These are considered a choice edible. Black trumpets have one of the most potent flavors of all wild mushrooms. Because they are hollow and small, they cook very fast and decrease significantly in size. Their small stature is offset with an amazing rich smoky flavor.
Other Name
Black Chanterelles.
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