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The Butter Waxcap (Hygrocybe ceracea) is a small, brightly colored mushroom known for its waxy texture and vibrant yellow to orange hues. It is commonly found in grasslands and woodlands, often appearing in late summer and autumn. This mushroom is appreciated for its aesthetic appeal and ecological role as a decomposer.
How to Identify
- Cap
- The cap is typically 1-4 cm in diameter, convex to flattened, and often has a central bump (umbo). The surface is smooth, waxy, and bright yellow to orange.
- Gills
- The gills are widely spaced, waxy, and adnate to decurrent (running down the stem). They are typically the same color as the cap or slightly paler.
- Stem
- The stem is 2-6 cm long and 0.3-0.8 cm thick, cylindrical, smooth, and the same color as the cap or slightly paler.
- Flesh
- The flesh is thin, waxy, and yellowish in color.
- Fruiting body
- Small to medium-sized mushroom with a waxy cap and bright colors.
- Habitat
- Found in grasslands, meadows, and woodlands, often in late summer and autumn.
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: Smooth, waxy
- Growth Form: Solitary or in small groups
- Spore Print: White
- Body color: Yellow to orange
- Odor: Mild, not distinctive
- Flesh bruises: No bruising
- Height: 2-6 cm
- Cap Diameter: 1-4 cm
- Nutrient gathering: Saprotrophic
Safe
SafeHygrocybe ceracea is generally considered non-toxic, but it is not typically consumed due to its small size and lack of substantial flavor. Misidentification with toxic species is a greater concern.
Quick Check
- Odor: Mild
- Fruiting: Late summer to autumn
- Substrate: Grasslands, woodlands
Where to Find
Grasslands
Grasslands, meadows, and pastures.
Woodlands
Woodland edges and clearings.
Mossy Areas
Areas with moss and decaying vegetation.
Finding Tips
Check After Rain
Look for them after periods of rain, as they prefer moist conditions.
Sunny Spots
Search in areas with short grass and plenty of sunlight.
Look in Groups
They often appear in groups, so if you find one, look around for more.
Similar Species
Hygrocybe chlorophana
mushroom
Also known as: Golden Waxcap
Hygrocybe coccinea
mushroom
Also known as: Scarlet Waxcap
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Basidiomycota
- Class
- Agaricomycetes
- Order
- Agaricales
- Family
- Hygrophoraceae
- Genus
- Hygrocybe
Storage Information
- Max Temperature: 25°C
- Freezing duration: N/A (not recommended)
- Min Temperature: 2°C
- Refrigeration: 2-3 days
How to Clean
To clean Butter Waxcaps, gently brush off any dirt or debris with a soft brush. Avoid washing them unless necessary, as they can absorb water easily. If washing is required, do so quickly under a gentle stream of water and pat them dry immediately.
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