Gymnopus fusipes - Spindleshank

Taxonomy

Phylum: Basidiomycota

Class: Agaricomycetes

Order: Agaricales

The distinctive spindle-shaped stem of this mushroom is often buried and visible only after excavation. Spindleshank occurs in tufts nearly always on the basal roots of hardwood trees, notably Beech and oaks, although very occasionally this species is reported growing on the roots of conifers..

Another helpful identification feature of Spindleshanks is their very wide gill spacing - far wider than other 'toughshanks'..

Identification Guide

Cap	Convex, flattening with an irregular incurved margin at least until fully mature; 3 to 7cm across; brown, often with dark brown blotches.
Gills	White, tinged tan-brown, developing rusty spots; adnexed or free; very widely spaced..
Stem	White near the apex, tan towards the base; spindle-shaped; 7 to 15cm long and 0.8 to 1.5cm dia; no ring.
Spore print	White or cream.
Odour/taste	Not distinctive.
Habitat	On the basal roots of mainly hardwood trees, especially Beech.
Season	July to October.
Occurrence	Common.
Similar species	The distinctive shape of the stem makes it almost impossible to confuse this species with any of the other common woodland mushrooms.