Armillariella mellea

Armillariella mellea, commonly known as the Honey Fungus, is a species of fungus in the family Physalacriaceae. It is a parasitic fungus that is particularly destructive to woody plants, causing a disease known as Armillaria root rot.

Description

The fruiting bodies of Armillariella mellea are typically honey yellow to dark brown in color, with a sticky cap surface. The gills are white and the stipe is fibrous, often with a distinctive ring. The spores are white and elliptical in shape.

Distribution and habitat

Armillariella mellea is widely distributed across the Northern Hemisphere, and has been reported in North America, Europe, and Asia. It is typically found in forests and woodlands, where it grows on the roots and lower trunks of a wide variety of tree species.

Pathogenicity

Armillariella mellea is a highly aggressive pathogen, causing Armillaria root rot in many species of trees and shrubs. The fungus spreads through rhizomorphs, which are root-like structures that grow through the soil and infect the roots of host plants. Infected plants often show symptoms such as reduced growth, yellowing leaves, and branch dieback.

Edibility

While Armillariella mellea is considered edible, it should be cooked thoroughly before consumption due to potential toxicity. Some individuals may also have allergic reactions to the fungus.

See also

• List of Armillaria species
• Mushroom hunting