Do you know the nine common mushrooms found in Ohio? Mushrooms are an interesting part of the ecosystem and can be found all around Ohio. Some people eat mushrooms for their nutritional value, while others use them for healing.
In this article, we will go over some of the most commonly found mushrooms in Ohio and how to identify them.
[Related Article: 10 Common Mushrooms In Oklahoma]
1. Shaggy Mane
The Shaggy Mane is a common mushroom found in Ohio. This type of mushroom is easily identified by its shaggy, white cap. The cap of the Shaggy Mane is often covered in brownish scales.
The gills of this mushroom are also white and run down the stem. The stem is typically 6-8 inches long and is also white.
This mushroom can be found growing on lawns, in fields, and in woods.
The Shaggy Mane is an edible mushroom, but it is not considered to be very good eating. When cooked, this mushroom often has a strong, unpleasant odor.
Some people say that the taste of the Shaggy Mane is similar to that of an old sock! Despite its poor reputation as a food source, the Shaggy Mane is sometimes used in soups or stews because it does have a high protein content.
2. Shaggy Parasol
The shaggy parasol is a common mushroom found in Ohio. This mushroom gets its name from its shaggy, brown cap. The shaggy parasol typically grows in wooded areas on dead or dying trees.
This mushroom is edible, but should be cooked before eating as it can cause stomach upset if eaten raw.
3. Morels
Morels are one of the most common mushrooms in Ohio. They can be found in woods, fields, and even your backyard! Morels are a type of edible fungi that have a spongy, honeycomb-like appearance. Morels are usually dark brown or black, but they can also be white or yellow.
Morels are best cooked before eating. They can be sauteed, baked, or breaded and fried. Morels have a nutty, earthy flavor that goes well with other foods.
Morels can be a great addition to any dish!
If you’re ever out for a hike or walk in the woods, keep your eyes peeled for morels. These delicious mushrooms are waiting to be discovered!
4. Meadow Mushroom
The meadow mushroom is one of the most common mushrooms found in Ohio. This mushroom typically grows in fields and meadows, hence its name.
The meadow mushroom is a small to medium sized mushroom with a brown or tan cap. The gills of this mushroom are white and can be seen running down the stem.
The stem of the meadow mushroom is also white and is typically the same height as the cap. This mushroom can be found growing alone or in groups.
When eaten, the meadow mushroom has a slightly nutty flavor.
5. Slippery Jack
Slippery Jack is a common mushroom found in Ohio. It gets its name from the slimy surface of the cap, which can make it difficult to handle. This mushroom is usually found in woods and meadows, often near coniferous trees.
Slippery Jack is edible, but not very tasty. It can be used in soups or stewed dishes to add flavor.
6. Destroying Angel
The Destroying Angel is a common mushroom found in Ohio. This mushroom is very poisonous, and can be deadly if ingested. The Destroying Angel gets its name from the fact that it looks so similar to other mushrooms that are safe to eat.
This makes it especially dangerous, as people may mistake it for a edible mushroom and end up consuming it.
If you think you may have ingested a Destroying Angel mushroom, it is important to seek medical attention immediately, as the toxins in this mushroom can cause organ failure and death within 24 hours.
If you are out in nature and come across this mushroom, it is best to leave it be and not touch it.
Even coming into contact with the Destroying Angel can be harmful, as the toxins can be absorbed through the skin.
7. False Morels
If you’re planning on going mushroom hunting in Ohio, be on the lookout for false morels! These common mushrooms are poisonous, and can cause serious illness or even death if ingested.
False morels resemble other morel species, but have a number of distinguishing features. They are typically larger than true morels, with a cap that is attached to the stem at the top rather than the side.
The surface of the cap is also wrinkled or brain-like in appearance, rather than honeycombed.
If you’re not sure whether a mushroom is a false morel or not, it’s best to err on the side of caution and leave it be.
If you think you may have found a false morel, take a photo and show it to an expert before consuming it.
8. Jack O’Lantern Mushroom
The Jack O’Lantern Mushroom is one of the most common mushrooms in Ohio. This mushroom is poisonous and can cause stomach cramps, vomiting, and diarrhea if eaten.
The best way to avoid this mushroom is to know what it looks like and to stay away from it.
9. False Parasol
The False Parasol mushroom is a common mushroom found in Ohio. While it may be tempting to pick this mushroom, you should know that it is poisonous. If ingested, this mushroom can cause stomach cramps, nausea, and vomiting. In severe cases, it can also lead to liver damage.
If you come across this mushroom while out hiking or exploring in Ohio, it’s best to leave it be. Don’t try to eat it, and don’t let your pets or children near it either.
It’s best to admire this mushroom from a distance and appreciate its beauty from afar.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these are 9 of the most common mushrooms found in Ohio. Some are edible and some are poisonous, so be sure to properly identify them before consuming.
Ranging in appearance and habitat, these mushrooms are commonly found in the Buckeye state. So the next time you’re out for a walk in the woods, keep your eyes peeled for these little fungi!
