How to identify Yellow Stagshorn

To correctly identify Yellow Stagshorn (Calocera viscosa), check each of these features in order. Misidentification is the most common cause of mushroom poisoning, so cross-reference multiple sources.

Step-by-step identification

1. 1

   Cap

   Shape, color, surface texture, and diameter.

   N/A (Cap absent)

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   N/A (Gills absent)

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   Absent or minimal

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   Gelatinous and rubbery

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   Small, branched, antler-like structure

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Decaying conifer wood

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

N/A (Cap absent)

Growth Form

Branched, antler-like

Spore Print

Yellowish

Body color

Bright yellow to orange

Odor

Not distinctive

Flesh bruises

No bruising reaction

Height

Up to 4 cm

Cap Diameter

N/A (Cap absent)

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: N/A (Gills absent)
• Stem shape: N/A (Stem absent or minimal)
• Stem surface: N/A (Stem absent or minimal)
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: N/A (Stem absent or minimal)

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