Hydnum Repandum

Image By Fred Stevens

Image By Taylor F. Lockwood

Hydnum repandum, commonly known as the hedgehog mushroom or sweet tooth, is a popular edible mushroom that is found in North America, Europe, and Asia. It is important to note that while Hydnum repandum is generally considered safe to eat, it can sometimes cause allergic reactions in certain individuals.

Description

1. Fruit body: The fruit body of Hydnum repandum is typically small to medium-sized and has a convex to flattened shape with a wavy margin. It can range in color from creamy white to yellowish-brown or orange-brown.

2. Spines: The underside of the cap is covered in spines that are usually whitish or cream-colored and are tooth-like in appearance. The spines are typically 1-2 cm long and are closely packed together.

3. Habitat: Hydnum repandum is a mycorrhizal fungus that is commonly found in deciduous and coniferous forests, often in association with oaks and beeches.

4. Lookalikes: There are several species of mushrooms that resemble Hydnum repandum and can be easily confused with it. One of the most common lookalikes is Hydnum umbilicatum, which has a similar appearance but has a central depression on the cap instead of a wavy margin. Other potential lookalikes include the toothed fungi of the genus Sarcodon, which have much larger and darker spines.