Cortinarius alboviolaceus

"Newly arisen Cortinarii, still in full amethystine bloom

The multitudinous Cortinariaceae

A very large family whose close tree relationships (mycorrhizal) are much more cordial than its dealings with humans; certain of its small brown members (inconspicuous and not depicted here, are deadly, imbued with a double dose of toxins, both Amanitan and Orellanin. One is warned never to eat any of the Little Brown Mushrooms and to avoid most of the larger members of the family when yellow, tawny, brown, orange or cinnamon.

Identification is difficult, their distinguishing mark, the cortina (the diaphanous veil shrouding their infant heads) soon vanishes, leaving no more than a cinnamon smudge. Since none are delectable, their taste being unequal to their looks, they are all best avoided."

In publication, Page 42: "Reflections on the Fungaloids" by B.L. Williamson, Ottawa, 1992. ISBN 1-894572-65-3