Cortinarius magellanicus
The beauty of Patagonia’s natural patrimony is almost self- evident. However, sometimes going unnoticed in this region are the fungi. Growing on branches, trunks and the soil are a great diversity of fungi species that are quite the show for those who seek them out. And one of the most striking fungi due to its intensely bright and purplish violet color is the Cortinarius magellanicus.
This fungus is a mycorrhizal species mainly associated with trees of the genus Nothofagus such as coihue, ñire, pellín oak and rauli. Endemic to the Patagonia region of Chile and Argentina, as well as New Zealand, it appears in autumn, from mid- March to mid- May, where it is usually seen growing on the ground in large numbers in the Andean forests.
Its hat is attached to the foot by a partial veil or curtain (hence the origin of their scientific name) that disappears as this fungus matures. It has chestnut foils and a ring of the same color that is dyed with the color of its spores. Thick and sticky, the fungus measures 3 to 12 cm long and 0.25 to 1.8 cm in diameter.
A species of fungi that is not considered threatened in terms of conservation, it is considered edible for cooking, and although it’s not a popular addition to culinary arts, its sometimes utilized to give a different flavor to foods as its aroma is strong and its taste sweet and soft when fresh.