Partial veil

Partial veil is a mycological term which describes a structure of some mushrooms which protects the developing gills or other spore-producing surface. A partial veil, in contrast to a universal veil, is attached to the stipe (stalk) and edge of the pileus (cap). In some mushrooms, both a partial veil and a universal veil may be present.

The partial veil may be membranous or cobwebby, and may have multiple layers. Some mushrooms have partial veils which are evanescent, disappearing once they rupture, while others may leave a persistent annulus (ring).

The presence, absence, or structure of the partial veil is an aid to identification of mushrooms.

Velum partiale