Black trumpets

Recognising black trumpets

Under the name “trumpets”, two dark funnel-shaped Craterellus with hollow stems are picked (the funnel chanterelle has its own page):

• the black trumpet or horn of plenty (Craterellus cornucopioides), entirely grey-black, smooth outer surface, under broadleaves;
• the grey chanterelle (C. cinereus), darker, with clearly marked ridges and a fruity smell.

Possible confusions

Simple rule: funnel hollow down to the base, grey to black, outer surface smooth or with forked ridges, never gills. This guide lists no dangerous look-alike for black trumpets, but the funnel chanterelle, paler and with a yellow stem, has a deadly look-alike (see its page): do not pick everything funnel-shaped without looking.

Habitat: where to look

The black trumpet is a mushroom of dark, cool, damp undergrowth. It is hard to see: its grey-black colour blends in with dead leaves.

Under which trees

• Mainly broadleaf forests: beeches, oaks, sweet chestnuts, hazels; sometimes under conifers.
• The grey chanterelle lives in similar habitats.

Soil and moisture

• It prefers heavy, very wet soils, for example clay, rather than dry, sandy soils. It can be very abundant after heavy rain.
• No precise altitude or aspect is established by the sources consulted: look for cool shade and moisture.

Microsites: where to look

• In the dead-leaf litter, in groups almost like carpets, in dark places.
• Look at ground level, or look for small dark funnels: you will see it better crouching than walking.
• Small valley bottoms, stream banks and shaded sunken lanes hold moisture longer.

Caution: the funnel chanterelle, which likes other habitats (conifers and moss), has a deadly look-alike: see its page.

Season and triggers

From late summer to early winter (as early as July-August in the north-east, in a wet year), often until the first frosts. These species like lasting soil moisture more than a big thunderstorm. They keep very well when dried.