Clouded Funnel (Clitocybe nebularis)

The Clouded Funnel (Clitocybe nebularis) is a large, pale grey woodland mushroom commonly found across the UK during autumn. It often grows in impressive troops or large rings in deciduous woodland, particularly among leaf litter. Its broad cap and crowded white gills make it quite conspicuous when fruiting in numbers. Because of its size and abundance, it is frequently noticed by beginner foragers.

Although sometimes listed as edible in older guides, the Clouded Funnel is now considered edible with caution or best avoided. Many people experience gastrointestinal upset after eating it, even when properly cooked. Reactions can include nausea and stomach pain, and some individuals appear particularly sensitive to it. Due to its inconsistent edibility and similarity to other funnel-shaped species, many modern foraging sources recommend avoiding it altogether.

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Identification Features:

• Large cap, often 8–20 cm wide
• Cap colour pale grey to grey-brown
• Cap surface smooth with a slightly “clouded” appearance
• Cap starts convex, becoming flattened or shallowly funnel-shaped
• Gills are white to cream
• Gills are crowded and slightly decurrent (run down the stem)
• Stem is thick, pale and solid
• Flesh is white and firm
• Strong, distinctive sweet or slightly unpleasant odour
• No ring or volva present
• Spore print is cream to pale buff
• Grows in woodland soil, not on wood
• Fruits late autumn in the UK

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Foraging Safety:

• Often causes stomach upset
• Reactions vary between individuals
• Not recommended for beginners
• Frequently confused with:
• Other Clitocybe species
• Funnel-shaped woodland mushrooms
• Some funnel species are poisonous
• Never rely on size or colour alone
• Avoid eating large quantities
• Cooking does NOT guarantee safety
• If eaten and symptoms develop:
• Seek medical advice
• Best practice:
• Identify for learning
• Avoid consumption

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