If you are hiking or exploring the great Colorado outdoors, you will come across a wide variety of plant life! You might be surprised to learn that Colorado boasts one of the most diverse mycological habitats in the world. Especially in the state's high-elevation mountain regions, you'll encounter everything from some of the most delectable edible mushrooms to species that are highly toxic and potentially deadly if consumed. Continue reading for a quick beginner's guide to the abundant variety of mushrooms that you will encounter in Colorado.
Beginner's Guide of Colorado's Mushrooms
Ganoderma Applanatum, commonly known as the artist's conk fungus, is a striking and unusual mushroom that looks nothing like the typical varieties found in grocery stores. Instead of a classic cap and stem, this fungus forms strange, rounded shelves that protrude directly from the trunks of trees. It can grow on both living and dead trees, but its presence on a tree you care about should raise concerns, as it causes wood decay. The artist's conk is hard, inedible, and can grow impressively large, reaching up to 39 inches in diameter. Confirmed sightings of the artist's conk fungus include Aspen and the surrounding areas during the fall season.
On the other hand, the Sarcodon Imbricatus, or hawk’s wing mushroom, is a favorite among Colorado mushroom enthusiasts. Its unique, feather-like appearance not only makes it visually interesting but also easy to identify, making it a great choice for beginner foragers. Its distinctive look also makes it safer to eat, as it's unlikely to be mistaken for any poisonous species. However, not all mushrooms are as benign; the destroying angel, one of the most lethal mushrooms in the world, serves as a stark warning to foragers. This deadly fungus, which belongs to the amanita genus, can be found in forests, lawns, and meadows across Colorado. It produces lethal amatoxins that cause severe, often irreversible damage to the liver and kidneys if ingested, with symptoms like vomiting and cramps appearing too late to save many victims. The beautiful yet deadly destroying angel is a powerful reminder that mushroom foraging should be approached with caution and expertise.