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Western Cauliflower Mushroom
The large cauliflower mushroom of the Pacific Northwest and northern California. It forms a rounded mass of noodle-like branches up to 45 cm across from a long rooting base at the foot of conifers. A 1976 mating study suggested it was the same as European S. crispa, but later DNA studies separate it as a distinct species. It is an edible, choice species that causes brown butt rot.
Edible and choice. Clean thoroughly, since the branches trap needles and grit, and cook. Use fresh whitish specimens. It is unlikely to be confused with poisonous mushrooms, but beginners should not mistake coral fungi (Ramaria, some GI-toxic) for it. Sparassis has flattened, curly, noodle-like branches from one base, not separate upright coral branches.
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Mycology is an evolving science: names, classifications and safety information change as research advances. Entries are compiled from cited sources and reviewed, but may be incomplete or out of date — check the sources, and never rely on this library alone to identify or eat a mushroom.
