Flammulina velutipes - Опёнок зимний - Velvet Foot

Flammulina velutipes - Опёнок зимний - Velvet Foot - Samtfußrübling 1/24/09—12/30/24

Flammulina velutipes, commonly known as the Velvet Foot or Samtfußrübling in German, is a small to medium-sized mushroom species belonging to the Physalacriaceae family. The cap of this fungus measures 2 to 10 cm in diameter, with a convex to flat shape and a smooth, slightly slimy surface. The cap color ranges from yellowish-brown to reddish-brown, often with a darker center. The gills of Flammulina velutipes are adnate (broadly attached to the stem) to slightly decurrent and white to cream in color. The stem is 3-10 cm tall and 0.5-1.5 cm thick, with a velvety texture and a dark brown to black color at the base, giving the species its common name. Flammulina velutipes can be found across North America, Europe, and Asia, primarily in deciduous and mixed forests. It grows on the wood of living or dead trees, particularly on hardwoods, from late autumn to early winter, and sometimes even in freezing temperatures. The chemistry of Flammulina velutipes is not well studied, but it is considered an edible mushroom with a pleasant taste and is cultivated in several countries, particularly in Asia. It is known as Enokitake in Japan and is often used in soups and salads. The spores of Flammulina velutipes are white, elliptical, and measure 6-9 x 3-5 micrometers. They are produced in basidia and are released into the environment for reproduction and dispersal. Flammulina velutipes has been studied for its potential medicinal properties, with research suggesting that it may contain compounds with antioxidant, anticancer, and immunomodulatory effects. The fungus is also known for its ability to grow in cold temperatures, with the fruiting bodies continuing to develop even during winter months. This characteristic has led to its common name "Winter Mushroom" in some regions.