Velvet Shank | Reserves and species

Scientific Name:

Flammulina velutipes

With its lovely glossy golden orange caps, this mushroom is quite commonly seen on stumps of decaying hard wood growing in clusters. Also know as the winter mushroom as it is one of the few mushrooms that can be seen during the winter months through to early spring. The latin name Flammulina refers to the bright orange flame- like colour of the cap. Edible.

How to identify:

Grows in clusters. The fleshy yellow-orange caps up to 10 cm across, are convex at first then become flatter, more irregular and quite undulating. The cap has a faintly striated margin. The surface of the cap is smooth and quite slimy when wet. Gills are white to pale yellow. The stem is rich reddish-to almost dark brown and quite velvety at the base.

Where to find it:

Clustered on dead and dying wood of deciduous trees such as elm, ash, beech or oak.

How people can help:

Fungi are an important part of our woodland ecology, helping to recycle nutrients from dead or decaying organic matter. Many animals depend on them, too. The Wildlife Trusts look after many woodland reserves, managing them for the benefit of the wildlife present, often leaving standing and fallen dead wood which supports fungi. You can help by having log piles and dead wood in your own garden to encourage fungi. In partnership with the RHS, The Wildlife Trusts' Wild About Gardens initiative can help you plan your wildlife garden

Statistics:

The caps are between 4-12cm across. Stem is up to 10cm long.

Conservation status:

Common

Seasons:

Winter

When to see

Start date:

November

End date:

February

Image: