Honey Mushroom
Armillaria mellea
Also known as: Honey Fungus
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Complete Taxonomy
Description
Armillaria mellea, the honey mushroom, is both an edible species and a destructive forest pathogen. It causes root rot and butt rot in trees and can spread through forests via black, shoestring-like rhizomorphs. Individual specimens can form massive underground mycelial networks spanning hundreds of acres, making them among Earth's largest organisms. The honey-colored caps fruit in dense clusters on infected wood.
Physical Characteristics
Distribution
Northern Hemisphere; Europe, Asia, North America
Habitat
Parasitizes living and dead trees as well as shrubs. Spreads via rhizomorphs (root-like structures). Affects both hardwoods and conifers.
Ecological Role
Major forest pathogen causing significant tree mortality. Also acts as decomposer of dead wood. Spreads via rhizomorphs that can travel several meters per year through soil.
⚠️ Toxicity Warning
Must be thoroughly cooked. Contains toxins destroyed by heat. Can cause gastric upset even when cooked in some individuals. Never consume raw.
Medicinal & Nutritional Properties
- Antioxidant compounds when properly prepared
- Contains polysaccharides with potential immune effects
- Good source of minerals
- Must be well-cooked to destroy toxins
Cultural Significance
Appreciated as edible in Europe and Asia when properly cooked. Causes significant economic losses in forestry and orchards. One specimen in Oregon covers 2,385 acres, making it one of the largest organisms on Earth.
Fascinating Facts
- A single organism in Oregon spans 2,385 acres (965 hectares)
- Estimated to be 2,400-8,650 years old (the Oregon specimen)
- Bioluminescent (glows faintly in the dark)
- Black rhizomorphs spread through soil like roots
- Can kill trees or persist as saprotroph on dead wood
- Must be thoroughly cooked before consumption
- Major problem in orchards and vineyards
- Among largest and oldest living organisms