CHANTERELLE MUSHROOMS
While chanterelles are a forager's favourite, there are some mushrooms that look similar, but are poisonous.
Chanterelle is the common name of several species of fungi in the genera Cantharellus, Craterellus, Gomphus and Polyozellus. They are orange, yellow or white, meaty and funnel-shaped. On the lower surface, most species have rounded, forked folds that run almost all the way down the stipe, which tapers down from the cap. Many species emit a fruity aroma and often have a mildly peppery taste. [Wiki].
REGULAR CHANTERELLE MUSHROOMS : Cantharellus cibarius
These are a rich rust colour, almost orange. They thrive in the damp, mossy woodlands and acidic soils of the region. Early autumn, from August to October, is the prime season for chanterelle foraging, with the weather conditions being favorable for their growth. [Paisley Honey]
Prized ingredient. Forager’s favourite. Succulent and delicate in flavour, chanterelle is used by chefs the world over. Yellow or orange in colour, smelling of apricots, chanterelles are a woodland favourite. [Woodland Trust]
WHITE CHANTERELLE MUSHROOMS : Cantharellus subalbidus
The white chanterelle differs from other chanterelles by its extremely pale, almost white fruitbody. Due to its well-developed false gills, it can be confused with members of the Clitocybe genus at first glance. But, like all chantarelles and unlike the Clitocybe species, it's almost never attacked by maggots! [Picture Mushroom]
Our example comes from the forest below Overtoun House. October 2025.
This one was found in Fishers Wood in October 2025. Just one of several.
The same chanterelle. They remind one of a flamenco dancer in a white skirt, here showing a fine pair of stems.
PAISLEY HONEY website : https://www.paisleyhoney.com/post/a-scottish-delicacy-unearthed-foraging-for-chanterelles-in-the-highlands
WIKIPEDIA : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chanterelle
WOODLAND TRUST : https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/fungi-and-lichens/chanterelle/
