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Gypsy Mushroom

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description Gypsy Mushroom Overview

Cortinarius caperatus, commonly called the gypsy mushroom, is a fungus of northern temperate and boreal regions of the Northern Hemisphere. It is recognized by a dry, wrinkled or fibrillose cap, a pale stem with a ring-like veil, and gills that become rusty brown as the spores mature. The species occurs in coniferous and mixed forests, often on acidic soils. It has traditionally been regarded as edible, but Cortinarius includes many poisonous species, so confident identification is essential.

help Gypsy Mushroom FAQ

How can I identify a Gypsy Mushroom?

Cortinarius caperatus, also called the gypsy mushroom or wrinkled cort, has a dry wrinkled tan-brown cap, pale stem and persistent ring. Its gills turn rusty brown as spores mature, which is an important field clue.

Where does Cortinarius caperatus grow?

It grows across northern temperate and boreal regions of Europe, North America and parts of Asia. Look for it in acidic, sandy woodland near conifers such as pine or spruce, and sometimes beech.

Is the Gypsy Mushroom safe to eat?

It is considered edible when correctly identified and thoroughly cooked, but most Cortinarius species are unsafe and some contain deadly toxins. The City of Vienna lists poisonous webcap lookalikes, so a beginner should have a specimen checked by a trained mushroom expert before eating it.

What is the older scientific name for the Gypsy Mushroom?

Older books may call it Rozites caperatus. Genetic classification moved it into the genus Cortinarius, which is why both names appear in field guides and databases.

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