How to identify Cinnabar Chanterelle

To correctly identify Cinnabar Chanterelle (Cantharellus cinnabarinus), 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.

   Small (1-4 cm), vase-like shape, reddish-orange color

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   False gills, blunt, decurrent, reddish-orange color

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   Slender, same color as the cap

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   Pale orange to pinkish, thin

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   Small, brightly colored, vase-shaped mushroom

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Deciduous woods, especially with oak trees

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Smooth

Growth Form

Solitary or in small groups

Spore Print

Pale yellow to orange

Body color

Reddish-orange

Odor

Faintly fruity

Flesh bruises

No significant bruising

Height

2-5 cm

Cap Diameter

1-4 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Decurrent (running down the stem)
• Stem shape: Cylindrical or tapering downwards
• Stem surface: Smooth
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: Solid

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