About this fungus
Straight-stemmed Marasmius is a fungus in the Marasmiaceae family. Its habitat and field characteristics are summarised below.
A relatively large litter mushroom with a yellow-orange cap and an unusually long, straight stem.
What to check
Confirm growth from broad-leaved leaf litter, pale well-spaced gills, a tough bare stem and a white spore print. Microscopy can confirm the species.
Variation
The cap may fade from yellow-orange to buff and curl upward as it matures.
Lookalikes
Other Marasmius and Gymnopus species can share the same litter habitat and wiry build.
Habitat and range
A saprotroph of hardwood leaf litter in eastern North America, fruiting in summer and autumn.
Food safety
Inedible.