King Mushroom

Catathelasma imperialis, a large mushroom which grows on the ground in mountainous woods in western N. America and in Japan. The olive brown, sticky cap measures 15–40 cm (6–16"), and covers buff gills which extend down the stalk a short distance. The stalk bears a double ring, and bulges just below this. Texture and flavour are good, and ‘it will freeze well. Many people make pickled mushrooms from this fungus since it stays very crisp and crunchy’ (Miller and Miller, 1980).

Not to be confused with the king boletus (see under cep).