IMPORTANT NOTE: THE MUSHROOM SHOWN IN THE IMAGE ABOVE IS NOT AN EMPEROR MUSHROOM. CONTACT AN EXPERT BEFORE FORAGING FOR EMPEROR MUSHROOMS OR ANY KIND OF MUSHROOM.
The Emperor mushroom (Agaricus julius) was chosen after a selection process by students, a teacher, and mycologists.
The Emperor mushroom is a notable species indigenous to Colorado's high-elevation spruce-fir forests and is a favorite of local foragers.
Closely related to the West Coast's Agaricus augustus, or "The Prince," A. julius distinguishes itself with a large, brown-scaled cap and a pronounced almond-like aroma. Unlike its counterpart, A. julius features a more rounded cap when young and thrives in mountainous regions, particularly under coniferous trees.
In March 2025, Colorado officially designated Agaricus julius as the state mushroom, following the signing of bill HB25-1091. This decision was influenced by the mushroom's unique presence in the state's ecosystem and its cultural significance.
The Emperor mushroom is celebrated not only for its distinctive appearance and fragrance but also as a choice edible species, said to have a rich, nutty flavor with distinctive almond-like aroma. It is slightly sweet and earthy tasting, and makes a great addition to savory dishes like stir-fries, risottos, and soups.
To purchase locally, try contacting a local mushroom company such as Elevated Mushrooms, Monster Mushroom Company, or Fresh off the Cap mushroom company.
If you're interested in learning more about foraging and using Emperor mushrooms in your cooking, contact the Colorado Mycological Society.
Closely related to the West Coast's Agaricus augustus, or "The Prince," A. julius distinguishes itself with a large, brown-scaled cap and a pronounced almond-like aroma. Unlike its counterpart, A. julius features a more rounded cap when young and thrives in mountainous regions, particularly under coniferous trees.
In March 2025, Colorado officially designated Agaricus julius as the state mushroom, following the signing of bill HB25-1091. This decision was influenced by the mushroom's unique presence in the state's ecosystem and its cultural significance.
The Emperor mushroom is celebrated not only for its distinctive appearance and fragrance but also as a choice edible species, said to have a rich, nutty flavor with distinctive almond-like aroma. It is slightly sweet and earthy tasting, and makes a great addition to savory dishes like stir-fries, risottos, and soups.
To purchase locally, try contacting a local mushroom company such as Elevated Mushrooms, Monster Mushroom Company, or Fresh off the Cap mushroom company.
If you're interested in learning more about foraging and using Emperor mushrooms in your cooking, contact the Colorado Mycological Society.