How to identify Butter Waxcap

To correctly identify Butter Waxcap (Hygrocybe ceracea), 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 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.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   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.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   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.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is thin, waxy, and yellowish in color.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   Small to medium-sized mushroom with a waxy cap and bright colors.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   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

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Adnate to decurrent
• Stem shape: Cylindrical
• Stem surface: Smooth
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: Solid

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