Amethyst Chanterelle

Habitat

This mushroom is typically found on soil in woodland environments, particularly in association with broad-leaved trees. It grows in groups or tufts and is frequently found on sloped terrain.

Photos

Appearance

Cap

3–10 cm wide, initially top-shaped and eventually flattened or depressed with a wavy, irregular margin. The surface is finely downy and features amethyst or purple-brown scales that may cover the entire surface or be concentrated at the center.

Stem

2–5 cm long, stout, and tapering toward the base. It is often flattened or twisted, with a smooth to finely velvety texture, and may bruise purple-brown.

Spore-bearing surface

Consists of thick, vein-like ridges or wrinkles that are deep yellow, widely spaced, forked, and run down the stem.

Flesh

White to pale yellow, tending to discolor or turn more yellowish with age.

Spore print

Ranges from white to pale yellowish or pinkish-white.

Smell

Mild and pleasant, often described as fruity or similar to apricots.

Taste

Mild to slightly fruity.

Edibility

Possessing a mild flavor and a pleasant scent reminiscent of apricots, this mushroom is considered a delicacy with edibility similar to the common Chanterelle. It is very similar in appearance to the Chanterelle but can be distinguished by variable purple-brown scales on the cap and its tendency to bruise a similar purple-brown color on the stem.

Nutrient Source

This species forms a symbiotic relationship with trees, exchanging nutrients and minerals from the soil for carbohydrates from the tree.

Common Names

Danish

Ametyst-kantarel

Dutch

Ametistcantharel

English

Amethyst Chanterelle

Norwegian Bokmål

ametystkantarell

Norwegian Nynorsk

ametystkantarell

Swedish

ametistkantarell

Synonyms

• Cantharellus ametysteus
• Craterellus amethysteus
• Merulius amethysteus