Cortinarius xiphidipus

Overview

Cortinarius xiphidipus is a wild agaric of the genus Cortinarius, known in English as the Patagonian webcap. It grows in Nothofagus forests of Patagonia, where it forms partnerships with the roots of its host trees.

Chemical composition

A 2022 study of 17 wild edible mushrooms from native Nothofagus forests in Patagonia included this species. The authors reported a carbohydrate-dominated profile: about 74.8 g carbohydrate, 12.3 g protein and 10.9 g ash per 100 g dry weight, with trehalose the main sugar.

The same study reported quinic acid and gallic acid values for the species. The authors described it as the first study of the chemical composition of this species. These are analytical results only; they do not show that the mushroom is safe to eat or what amount is appropriate.

Food use record

The supplied catalogue lists a published regional consumption record for this species in Patagonia. The record does not describe how the mushroom is prepared, who eats it, or how often.

Safety

The genus Cortinarius contains species that are deadly because of kidney toxins. The catalogue states that this entry is a specialist research record and carries no general recommendation to eat webcaps.

Nutritional data does not establish safety, and a regional consumption record does not establish a safe preparation. Identification must be confirmed by a competent expert before any mushroom of this genus is eaten.