Twelve edible mushrooms of the United States/Hydnum repandum

by Thomas Taylor

Hydnum repandum, "Hedgehog or Spine Mushroom"

Figure 4, illustrating a specimen of Hydnum repandum (from original text).

The genus Hydnum being so well defined, having spines instead of gills or pores, is easily distinguished from all the others.

The pileus of the species repandum is irregular in shape, depressed in the center, fleshy, and of a pale cinnamon or yellowish color.

Flesh is firm and white, turning slightly brown when bruised. The spines are awl-shaped, of various sizes, crowded and running down; paler in color than the pileus. Stem solid, at first white, and then tawny cream color; spores round and white. There are no poisonous species in this genus, although some are too tough to be considered edible.

The species repandum is the most desirable of the genus Hydnum. M. Roques, an eminent French mycologist, says:

"The general use of this fungus throughout France, Italy, and Germany leaves no room for doubt as to its good qualities."

It is common in the oak and pine woods in England. Mrs. Hussey recommends stewing this mushroom in brown or white sauce.

"Cook slowly and for a long time and keep well supplied with liquid, it being naturally deficient in moisture."

Its dry nature makes it easy to preserve, and it may be kept for a great length of time.