(Tricholoma magnivelare)
Matsutake
A trio of newly emerged Matsutakes found under old growth Douglas fir. The scientific name of this mushroom appears to have been finally settled, but most people know it by its common name: Matsutake. One of the most prized mushrooms on earth, it grows in abundance in the PNW. It associates with various hardwoods and conifers. Can be 8-9 inches at maturity. Whitish initially, becoming orange-brown. It features a distinctive spicy odor. A prime specimen can easily fetch $100 in Japan, where many get shipped. They tend to form low "mushrumps" in the forest, with not much visible. Matsutake is a very stout and long-lasting mushroom that can be used in soups, Sukiyaki & Asian dishes, grilled, etc. It is a fall species in the PNW, and has a persistent flaring ring easily visible in this photo. It grows in the same locale as the deadly white Amanita smithiana, so one must be careful with identification.....not a problem if you know the look-alike's features.