Where does Winter Navel grow?
Arrhenia rickenii
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Open the appWinter Navel grows in specific habitats. Knowing where to look and when is the difference between an empty basket and a successful forage.
Where to find Winter Navel
Europe
Widespread across temperate and boreal regions of Europe, particularly in areas with suitable moss habitats.
North America
Reported from various regions in North America, especially in the Pacific Northwest and northeastern parts, where mossy habitats are prevalent.
Asia
Occasional reports from parts of Asia, though its distribution here may be less well-documented.
Foraging tips
- Habitat Focus. Look for this species in damp, mossy areas, especially bogs, fens, and wet woodlands. It is almost exclusively found growing directly on mosses.
- Seasonal Timing. While its common name suggests 'Winter Navel', it can fruit from late autumn through winter and into early spring, often appearing during mild spells when other fungi are scarce.
- Size and Color. Its small size and dark, often greyish-brown to blackish coloration, combined with its deeply depressed cap, are key identification features.
- Decurrent Gills. Observe the gills carefully; they should run down the stem (decurrent), which is a characteristic feature of Arrhenia species.
Quick Check
- Substrate:
- Mosses (bryophilous)
- Fruiting:
- Late autumn to early spring
- Odor:
- Indistinct or slightly fungoid
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