Armillaria tabescens

Armillaria tabescens, also known as the Ringless Honey Mushroom, is a species of fungus in the family Physalacriaceae. It is native to North America and is commonly found in the southeastern United States.

Description

The Armillaria tabescens is a medium to large-sized mushroom that typically grows in clusters on wood, particularly on stumps and logs. The cap is convex to flat, often with a central depression, and measures 3-10 cm in diameter. The color varies from yellow-brown to dark brown. The gills are white to cream, and the stem is usually the same color as the cap, but paler. Unlike other species in the genus Armillaria, it does not have a ring on the stem.

Habitat and distribution

Armillaria tabescens is widely distributed in the southeastern United States, from Texas to Florida and north to Maryland. It is also found in Mexico. The fungus grows in both hardwood and coniferous forests, and is particularly common in areas with oak trees. It fruits in the fall, often in large clusters.

Edibility

The Armillaria tabescens is considered edible and is often collected for food. However, it should be cooked thoroughly before consumption, as raw or undercooked specimens can cause gastrointestinal upset. Some people may also have an allergic reaction to this mushroom.

Taxonomy

The Armillaria tabescens was first described in 1893 by American mycologist Charles Horton Peck. The species name "tabescens" means "wasting away", a reference to the mushroom's habit of decaying wood.

See also

• List of Armillaria species
• Edible mushroom