Ispárs

Ispárs are a type of edible mushroom belonging to the genus Lyophyllum. They are characterized by their dense, meaty texture and a mild, earthy flavor. The caps of ispárs are typically convex when young, flattening out with age, and range in color from grayish-brown to dark brown. Their gills are closely spaced and decurrent, meaning they run down the stem. The stem itself is usually thick and fibrous.

These mushrooms are found in temperate regions worldwide and often grow in dense clusters or fairy rings, particularly in forests, woodlands, and sometimes in grassy areas. They are saprobic, meaning they derive nutrients from decaying organic matter. Ispárs are generally considered edible and are appreciated in culinary circles for their firm texture, which holds up well in cooking. They can be sautéed, roasted, or incorporated into stews and other dishes.

While generally safe to consume, it is crucial to correctly identify ispárs before foraging. There can be look-alike species, and misidentification can lead to consumption of poisonous mushrooms. Foraging should only be undertaken by experienced individuals or with the guidance of a mycologist. Their cultivation is not widespread, with most ispárs being harvested from the wild. Their ecological role is significant, contributing to the decomposition of forest litter.