Cantharellus infundibuliformis Group
Cantharellus tubaeformis

Winter Chanterelle / Funnel Chanterelle

Here is a definite MOO candidate ( Mushroom Of Opportunity ). You will often find these serendipitously.
They are small. They are hard to spot. You won't see them from 20 yards away ( at least not here in southwestern Pennsylvania ) like you can with several other good edibles. However, if you remember where you found them in the past that will at least give you an advantage.

Even though small they are often found in quantity.

I usually find these growing in the Fall and usually there is pine or hemlock around - close. Also found on rotting conifer logs and stumps. Walk slow and look close. Those yellow stalks are what is usually spotted first. Then when your eyes become a bit accustomed you can sometimes see huge colonies.

It is not unusual to come across very large colonies numbering hundreds.

Because they are small you will need a good handful for your own meal and another handful for each other person that loves mushrooms.

Here is a good example of the size.
Here is southwestern Pennsylvania if they are found bigger than these then you have found a great spot - remember it well.

Like all Chanterelles you will note that the gills are not like most 'gilled' mushrooms but more like raised ridges. Sometimes they are veined or forked. The undersurface is grayish yellow. Sometimes a hint of violet.
Cap is brown when young and faded when older. Cap edge is usually wavy. Stalk is yellowish gold and sometime has a groove. Many stalks will be hollow. Shape is like trumpet or funnel. The center of the cap will often have a little hole in it when matured.

When you find a grouping of them take your time when gathering. Cut or snip off the bottom of the stem to remove the dirt. Because there are usually hundreds found at a time you might as well make yourself comfortable. When you get them home they should be just about clean enough to eat.

Here is a sampling of various stages of growth. It can be seen how the undersurface progresses from a yellowish gray to gray or violet gray. Also the hole in the center of the cap and how the cap color goes from brown to faded brown.

These Chanterelles have a real good texture and taste. They dry well. They clean up real easy in a little water, just swish around quickly and drain. They are tough enough to withstand a little swishing.

Cantharellus tubaeformis / Cantharellus infundibuliformis - A/K/A - Winter Chanterelle, Funnel Chanterelle.
DATE - Mid September to October, depending on weather.
FOUND - Boggy humus and moss and rotting wood in pine and/or hemlock forests. Laurel Hill State Park, Kooser State Park and Forbes State Forest.

After several damp days in the Fall is the best time.

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