Wood Blewit
Blewit, Blue-leg, Clitocybe nuda (old synonym)
Lepista nuda
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The wood blewit is a mushroom known for its appealing appearance and edibility, although some people can be sensitive to it. Recognizable by its lilac-colored cap, gills, and stem when young, the wood blewit has a broad distribution and is found in a variety of woodlands throughout its range.
Wood Blewit
Common Name
Wood Blewit
Other Names
Blewit, Blue-leg, Clitocybe nuda (old synonym)
Latin Name
Lepista nuda
Distribution
Wood blewits are found widely in North America and Europe. They occur naturally in woodland areas but can also be found in grassy areas, particularly where there is decaying plant material.
Appearance
The wood blewit is notable for its lilac to purple hue in its younger stages, though the color can fade as it matures. The gills are crowded and are the same lilac color, turning to brown as the spores mature. The stem may also exhibit a similar coloration but becomes more buff with age.
Size
The cap can range from 6 to 12 cm in diameter, while the stem can be between 5 to 10 cm tall.
Habitat
They predominantly grow in woodlands, particularly under conifers or hardwoods, but can also be found in grassy areas and gardens.
Diet
The wood blewit is saprotrophic, meaning it feeds by decomposing organic matter, primarily from decaying leaves and wood.
Lifecycle
It reproduces through spores, which are brown. Like other fungi, its lifecycle includes spore germination, mycelial growth, and the fruiting of the mushroom.
Defense Mechanisms
The lilac coloration of the wood blewit might be a form of camouflage, helping it blend into the fallen leaves and twigs of its woodland habitat. Additionally, while edible, the wood blewit can cause allergic reactions or upset stomachs in some people, acting as a potential deterrent against consumption.
Ecological Importance
As a decomposer, the wood blewit plays an essential role in nutrient cycling. It breaks down organic materials, returning vital nutrients to the soil and supporting the health of forest ecosystemsAn ecosystem is a community of living organisms, like insects and birds, and non-living components, like water and rocks, that interact with each other in a specific area. Learn More.
ConservationThe act of protecting and preserving natural resources and the environment. Conservation efforts are important to protect beavers and their habitats. Learn More Status
It’s relatively common in its distribution.
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