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Angel wings mushroom
Fungi
EXPLORE > PLANTS > FUNGI

Pleurocybella porrigens

The angel wings mushroom is a common species found throughout Oregon and the Pacific Northwest. The fungus is typically white to pale gray and grows on the side of trees. The cap is small (typically 1.5 to 2 inches across) and shaped either like a fan or a tongue. The underside of the cap is covered in shallow gills. It rarely grows a stalk and when it does it appears only as a short stub. 

Although considered an edible species, angel wings have been connected to several cases of fatal encephalopathy. Its role in these deaths has not been clearly established and some sources label this species as poisonous. It is lookalike for the harmless oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus). 

IMPORTANT NOTE: Most forms of mushroom are poisonous! No mushroom should be eaten unless you know exactly what you are doing or have an experienced, knowledgable person to guide you.

Distribution

Angel wings will often grow in very large colonies on rotting conifers. They are particularly common in northern California and the Pacific Northwest, although they can be found throughout North America and Europe.

Conservation Status

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Common.
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