In a joint effort to expand the knowledge and understanding of the flora and fauna of Polk County, Conserving Carolina and botanist David Campbell are asking for the community’s help in locating this month’s “Polk County’s Most Wanted — Fungi,” one of the area’s most cryptic (and edible) species of fungi, Black Trumpet Mushroom (Craterellus fallax). 

Occurring throughout the region, Black Trumpets are indeed aptly named, as they are dark in coloration, with a tube-like appearance that is reminiscent of a trumpet. The “trumpets” are usually from 1 to 2.5 inches in length, with a grayish-black coloration. The spore print is yellowish to orange.

Some people have likened the scent of Black Trumpets as being “fruity” or “earthy.”

Black Trumpets are considered one of the choicest species of edible mushrooms, and they are greatly coveted by mushroom hunters with culinary interests. As always, however, one must never eat any species of mushroom where identification is even remotely uncertain. As well, some people have unique reactions even to edible species of mushrooms, so one must exercise caution.  

Black Trumpets are known to occur in Polk County, with peak fruiting times from mid-August to early October. People may look for it in moist to semi-dry forests under various species of Oak and Beech.

Those who think that they have seen Black Trumpet mushrooms in Polk County may send photos, questions or comments to Pam Torlina at Conserving Carolina by phone at 828-697-5777, ext. 300, or email pam@conservingcarolina.org.

Those interested in learning more may visit Conserving Carolina’s website, conservingcarolina.org/our-impact/education/, for more information about “Polk County’s Most Wanted,” and to download and print a “Pocket Guide” with all of the “Most Wanted” plants, animals and habitats in the local area.

– Submitted by David Campbell