How to identify Scaly Rustgill

To correctly identify Scaly Rustgill (Gymnopilus sapineus), 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.

   The cap is convex to flattened, typically 2 to 7 cm in diameter. The cap surface is dry and scaly, with a rusty orange to brownish-orange color.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   The gills are adnate to decurrent, close, and rusty orange.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   The stem is 3 to 8 cm long and 0.5 to 1 cm thick, equal to slightly enlarged at the base. The stem surface is dry and scaly, with a rusty orange to brownish-orange color. A partial veil may be present in young specimens, leaving a fragile ring on the upper stem.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is yellowish to orange-brown.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   The fruiting body of Gymnopilus sapineus is a mushroom with a convex to flattened cap, typically 2 to 7 cm in diameter. The cap surface is dry and scaly, with a rusty orange to brownish-orange color.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Gymnopilus sapineus grows on dead wood, particularly coniferous wood. It is widely distributed in North America and Europe.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Dry, scaly

Growth Form

Clustered

Spore Print

Rusty orange

Body color

Rusty orange to brownish-orange

Odor

Faint, radish-like

Flesh bruises

No bruising

Height

3-8 cm

Cap Diameter

2-7 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Adnate to decurrent
• Stem shape: Equal to slightly enlarged at the base
• Stem surface: Dry, scaly
• Ring: Fragile, may be present in young specimens
• Stem cross-section: Solid

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