Latin name : Tricholoma Ponderosum
Previously the Ponderosum had been classified in the Genus of Armillaria,
because of the ring on their stems. A closely related species, Tricholoma caligatum
is smaller and of a more slender stature and bears large dark scales on the cap and dark patches on the stem and is the only other mushroom in the pacific northwest
that has exactly the same odour as the Ponderosum. The caligatum is also edible,
but much less common than the Ponderosum. The correct name for the Japanese
pine mushroom, Tricholoma magnivelare, has very seldom been used in the
literature to date.
The Pine is a large, thick fleshed, white mushroom with reddish-brown scales on cap and stalk, white ring, and white gills that easily discolor. The cap grows from 2" to 8" wide, convex, becoming flat; cottony margin inrolled at first, uplifting with age. Tacky to dry smooth surface. Collectors interested in the Pine mushroom
for food should, compare it closely with the White Aminitas species, which is
very poisonious.
The Pine Mushroom has a very distinctive fragrant odor. (Spicy-Sweet)
