Definition

Noun: 1. A species of gilled mushroom (fungus) belonging to the genus Pholiota. It is characterized by a cap and stalk (stipe) that are distinctly covered with upright, shaggy scales. Its gills, initially pale, develop a distinctive greenish tint as the mushroom matures.

Usage

• Pholiota squarrosa is commonly found growing in clusters on the wood of deciduous trees, particularly beech and elm.
• While some species are edible, Pholiota squarrosa is generally considered inedible or of unknown edibility and should not be consumed.
• Mycologists study features like the scaly cap and greenish-tinged gills to identify Pholiota squarrosa.

Examples

• "We identified the cluster on the old stump as Pholiota squarrosa due to its shaggy scales."
• "The field guide notes that the gills of Pholiota squarrosa often turn a greenish color."
• "Unlike its edible relatives, Pholiota squarrosa is not recommended for foraging."

Advanced Usage

• The species name "squarrosa" is derived from Latin, referring to the rough, scaly (squarrose) texture of the cap and stalk.
• In scientific literature, it may be referenced within discussions on saprobic fungi, which decompose wood.

Variants and Related Words

• Scaly Pholiota: A common English name for this mushroom.
• Shaggy Scalycap: Another common name describing its appearance.
• Pholiota (genus name): The genus to which this species belongs, containing other gilled, often wood-decaying mushrooms.

Synonyms

• Scaly Pholiota
• Shaggy Scalycap

Related Terms

• Saprobic: An organism that obtains nutrients from decaying organic matter. is a saprobic fungus.
• Gills: The thin, radiating structures on the underside of the cap where spores are produced.
• Stipe: The scientific term for the stalk or stem of a mushroom.

Noun

1. a gilled fungus with a cap and stalk that are conspicuously scaly with upright scales; gills develop a greenish tinge with age