How to identify Violet Webcap

To correctly identify Violet Webcap (Cortinarius violaceus), 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.

   Convex to broadly convex, becoming somewhat flattened with age; dark violet to purplish-brown, often fading with age; dry, slightly sticky when moist; margin often incurved.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   Closely spaced, adnate (attached to the stem); violet to purplish-brown.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   Stout, cylindrical, often slightly bulbous at the base; violet, becoming brownish with age; fibrous surface.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   Thick, firm, violet; slowly turning brownish with age.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   Large, robust mushroom with a distinct violet color.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Mycorrhizal with coniferous and deciduous trees, particularly pines and beeches.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Dry, slightly sticky when moist

Growth Form

Solitary or in small groups

Spore Print

Rusty brown

Body color

Violet to purplish-brown

Odor

Slightly earthy or radish-like

Flesh bruises

Slowly turns brownish

Height

8-15 cm

Cap Diameter

5-15 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Adnate
• Stem shape: Cylindrical, slightly bulbous at base
• Stem surface: Fibrous, violet
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: Solid

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