13 Common Mushrooms In Arkansas

There are many species of mushrooms that can be found in Arkansas. Of these, thirteen are the most common and typically eaten. This article will provide a guide to identifying and identifying the common mushrooms found in Arkansas.

[Related Article: Common Mushrooms In California: [Top 8]

1. Morels

Morels are a type of edible mushroom that is popular in many parts of the world. These mushrooms have a distinctive shape, with a hollow stem and a cap that is attached to the stem at the bottom.

Morels are usually found in areas with moist soil, such as near streams or in forests.

Morels are considered to be a gourmet food, and they are often used in high-end restaurants. These mushrooms have a nutty flavor that pairs well with other foods. Morels can be cooked in many different ways, including sauteed, roasted, or fried.

If you are looking for morels, the best place to start your search is in moist and shaded areas. Morels typically grow in groups, so if you find one morel, there are likely to be others nearby.

Be sure to check under logs and leaves, as morels often grow in these areas.

2. Oyster Mushrooms

Oyster mushrooms are one of the most common mushrooms found in Arkansas. These mushrooms typically grow on dead or dying trees, and they get their name from their oyster-like shape. Oyster mushrooms are edible and are often used in stir-fries, soups, and stews.

While oyster mushrooms are generally considered safe to eat, there have been a few reports of people becoming ill after consuming them. It is important to only harvest oyster mushrooms from areas that have not been sprayed with pesticides, and to properly cook them before eating.

3. Chanterelles

Chanterelles are one of the most popular and easily recognizable mushrooms. They have a distinct shape, with their caps attached to the stem at a 45-degree angle. Chanterelles can be various shades of yellow, orange, or brown, and they have a slightly fruity smell.

These mushrooms are found all over the world, and they’re especially common in North America and Europe. Chanterelles are often used in cooking because of their flavorful taste.

They can be sauteed, grilled, or roasted, and they go well with other ingredients like onions, garlic, and herbs.

If you’re lucky enough to find chanterelles in the wild, make sure to clean them thoroughly before cooking. Chanterelles can sometimes harbor insects or other small creatures.

Once they’re clean, cook them quickly so that they retain their flavor and texture.

4. Chicken Of The Woods Mushrooms

Chicken of the Woods mushrooms are one of the most common mushrooms found in Arkansas. These mushrooms typically grow on trees or logs, and are characterized by their orange or yellow color. Chicken of the Woods mushrooms are edible, and can be used in many different recipes.

These mushrooms are a great source of protein, and can be cooked in a variety of ways. Chicken of the Woods mushrooms can be grilled, sauteed, or even eaten raw.

If you’re looking for a new way to add some flavor to your meals, consider trying chicken of the woods mushrooms!

5. Puffballs

Puffballs are one of the most common mushrooms found in Arkansas. They can be found in woods, fields, and even lawns. Puffballs come in many different sizes, but they all have one thing in common: they have a smooth, white surface.

Puffballs are edible, but they must be eaten when they are young and the flesh is still white. Once the puffball matures, the flesh turns brown and becomes tough.

When cutting into a puffball, be sure to cut it open from the top; if you cut it from the side or bottom, you may release spores that will cause allergic reactions in some people.

If you’re looking for a tasty treat, try slicing up a young puffball and frying it in butter. You can also add puffballs to soups or stews. Just be sure to cook them first; raw puffballs can cause stomach upset.

6. Bolete

Bolete mushrooms are some of the most common mushrooms found in Arkansas. These fungi typically have a brown or red cap with white pores on the underside. Boletes are often found growing in wooded areas, near tree roots, or at the base of trees.

These mushrooms are edible, but some people may experience digestive upset if they eat them raw. It’s best to cook bolete mushrooms before eating them. These fungi can be used in a variety of recipes, including soups, stews, and casseroles.

If you’re interested in collecting mushrooms for food, it’s important to learn how to identify boletes so that you don’t accidentally consume a poisonous mushroom.

Some poisonous mushrooms can resemble boletes, so it’s best to err on the side of caution and only collect mushrooms that you’re 100% sure are safe to eat.

7. Wood Ear Mushrooms

Wood ear mushrooms, also known as Auricularia auricula-judae, are a common type of mushroom found in Arkansas. These mushrooms are dark brown or black in color and have a rubbery texture.

Wood ear mushrooms are often used in Asian cuisine, as they have a mild flavor and can be easily added to soups and stir-fries.

These mushrooms get their name from their shape, which resembles a human ear. Wood ear mushrooms are native to Asia but can now be found all over the world. In Arkansas, they can often be found growing on trees or fallen logs.

Wood ear mushrooms are a good source of fiber and protein, and also contain several vitamins and minerals. These mushrooms have anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties, and are believed to boost the immune system.

Wood ear mushrooms can be eaten raw, cooked, or dried.

8. Brown Jellies

Brown Jellies are common mushrooms in Arkansas. They can be found growing on trees, logs, and stumps in the forests throughout the state.

Brown Jellies are a type of bracket fungus, and they get their name from their brownish color and jelly-like texture. These fungi are typically 1-2 inches wide and 2-4 inches long.

Brown Jellies are not edible, and in fact, they can be quite poisonous if ingested. Symptoms of poisoning include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

If you come into contact with a Brown Jelly, it is important to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. If you have any questions or concerns, please consult a medical professional.

9. Indigo Milk Cap

The Indigo Milk Cap is another common mushroom found in Arkansas. This mushroom can be found in both deciduous and coniferous forests and is typically found in early summer.

The Indigo Milk Cap gets its name from its deep blue coloration. This mushroom is edible but should be cooked before consumption as it can cause gastrointestinal upset if eaten raw.

10. Turkey Tails

Turkey tails are one of the most common mushrooms found in Arkansas. These mushrooms have a distinctively shaped cap that resembles a turkey’s tail, hence their name. Turkey tails are typically dark brown or gray in color and have a smooth texture.

These mushrooms grow on dead or dying trees, logs, and stumps. Turkey tails are often used in traditional Chinese medicine and are thought to have numerous health benefits.

Some of these purported benefits include boosting the immune system, reducing inflammation, and fighting cancer.

If you come across turkey tails while out mushroom hunting, be sure to snap some photos! These mushrooms make for beautiful pictures and make great additions to any nature-themed photo album.

11. Ganoderma

Ganoderma mushrooms are common in Arkansas and can be found growing on dead or dying trees. These mushrooms are large, with caps that can reach up to 18 inches in diameter.

The cap is usually brown or reddish-brown, and the underside is covered in small pores. These mushrooms have a long stalk that can be up to 12 inches long.

Ganoderma mushrooms are considered medicinal mushrooms and have a wide range of health benefits. These mushrooms are anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, and immunostimulatory.

These mushrooms can be consumed fresh, cooked, or dried. They can also be made into teas, tinctures, or capsules.

12. Black Trumpet

The Black Trumpet is a common mushroom found in Arkansas. This mushroom is characterized by its black color and trumpet-like shape. These mushrooms are often found in wooded areas and is a favorite among many mushroom hunters.

This mushroom is not only beautiful, but it is also delicious! The Black Trumpet can be cooked in many different ways and pairs well with other ingredients.

If you’re looking for a new mushroom to add to your repertoire, the Black Trumpet is a great choice!

13. Lions Mane

Lions Mane mushrooms are one of the most popular and common mushrooms found in Arkansas. These mushrooms have a white, shaggy appearance and can be found growing on trees or logs.

Lions Mane mushrooms are edible and are often used in soups or stir-fries. These mushrooms have a mild taste and a slightly crunchy texture.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are many different types of mushrooms that are common in Arkansas. Each type of mushroom has its own unique benefits and drawbacks.

Be sure to do your research before consuming any type of mushroom, and always consult with a professional if you are unsure.