Giant Funnel

Habitat

This species is primarily found on soil amongst grass in pastures, parklands, roadsides, and along hedgerows, though it occasionally appears in woodland environments. It grows in large groups and frequently forms fairy rings.

Photos

Appearance

Cap

Massive, measuring 8 to 40 cm across. Initially flat or slightly convex, it quickly develops into a deep funnel shape with an inrolled margin. The surface is ivory to cream, potentially turning tan at the center, and can be finely velvety or felty, often cracking or forming scales as it ages.

Stem

Short and stout, measuring 4 to 7 cm long and 2.5 to 3.5 cm thick. It is whitish or cream in color, tough, and may be smooth or finely downy. The shape is typically equal or slightly tapering into a somewhat bulbous base.

Gills

Deeply decurrent and very crowded. They are white to creamy, sometimes becoming buff or darker with age, and are frequently forked.

Flesh

White and firm, often described as having a tough texture.

Spore print

White.

Smell and taste

Mild, faint, and pleasant, often described as mushroomy.

Edibility

The Giant Funnel is best consumed when young and small, as the flesh can be tough. Some individuals have reported experiencing gastric upset after eating this species. While mature specimens are distinct, they may be confused with large milkcaps or the non-toxic Trooping Funnel.

Nutrient Source

It obtains nutrients by decomposing dead organic matter, such as fallen leaves and wood. It is not a living organism.

Common Names

Dutch

Reuzendikhoed

English

Giant Funnel-Cap, Giant Funnel

French

Leucopaxille géant

Welsh

Twmffat/Twndish Enfawr

Synonyms

• Agaricus giganteus
• Agaricus giganteus
• Clitocybe gigantea
• Leucopaxillus giganteus — Giant Funnel
• Paxillus giganteus