BASIDIOMYCETES: Aphyllophorales, Cantharellaceae

Chanterelle, Cantharellus cibarius

Basidiomycetes, order: Aphyllophorales, family: Cantharellaceae

Height to 4"

Cap is up to 6" wide, convex, and then flattened with a sunken center and a wavy, lobed margin. Surface is smooth and pale tan to orange-yellow. The fertile underside is a network of pale yellowish ridges extending from the cap to midway down the stalk. The flesh has a subtle, fruity odor and spicy taste. Spore print is pale yellow-brown. Chanterelles are found in oak or coniferous woodlands throughout North America during the summer in the East, fall in the Northwest, and winter in California. It is edible and choice, but be careful not to confuse it with the toxic Jack-o-lantern mushroom.