Lyophyllum decastes, commonly known as the fried chicken mushroom,[1] or chicken of the road, is an edible species of fungus in the family Lyophyllaceae that grows in clusters on disturbed ground, often near man-made roads in gravel, with a faintly radish-like taste.[2]
Appearance
Gills are white but may yellow slightly with age. The firm flesh remains white on exposure.[2]
Lyophyllum decastes similar in appearance to the toxic species Lyophyllum loricatum, Lyophyllum connatum, Clitocybe dilatata, and those of the Entoloma genus.[3]
Ecology
Growing in dense, even huge clusters on the ground, L. decastes is usually found where the ground has been disturbed such as roadbeds, gravel, paths, landscaping areas, and sometimes in woods.[2]
Range
Prolific in summer and fall until spring on the U.S. West Coast, it is widely distributed in North America.[2]
Edibility
This species is considered edible and good, but should be tried with caution due to some reports of gastric upset,[1] as well as the possibility of confusing it with poisonous Entoloma species or Clitocybe dilatata.[4]
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