Got a photo? Identify mushrooms instantly with the Mushby app
Open the appDescription
Hygrocybe coccinea, commonly known as the Scarlet Waxcap, is a small to medium-sized mushroom characterized by its vibrant red to orange-red color. It is typically found in grasslands and woodlands, often in association with mosses. This mushroom is part of the waxcap family (Hygrophoraceae), known for their waxy gills and bright colors.
How to Identify
- Cap
- The cap is convex to flattened, often with a slight umbo (a central raised area). The color ranges from scarlet red to orange-red, and the surface is smooth and slightly sticky when moist. The cap margin is often translucent and may be slightly wavy.
- Gills
- The gills are adnate to slightly decurrent (running down the stem), widely spaced, and waxy in texture. They are typically the same color as the cap or slightly paler, with a smooth edge.
- Stem
- The stem is cylindrical, slender, and typically the same color as the cap or slightly paler. It is smooth and may be slightly sticky when moist. The stem usually measures 3 to 7 cm in length and 0.3 to 0.8 cm in diameter.
- Flesh
- The flesh is thin and waxy, with a color similar to the cap but often paler. It does not have a distinctive odor or taste.
- Fruiting body
- The fruiting body of Hygrocybe coccinea is typically small to medium-sized, with a cap diameter ranging from 2 to 5 cm. The overall appearance is brightly colored, making it relatively easy to spot in its habitat.
- Habitat
- Hygrocybe coccinea is commonly found in grasslands, meadows, and woodlands. It often grows in association with mosses and is more prevalent in undisturbed habitats. It is a saprophytic fungus, meaning it obtains nutrients from decaying organic matter.
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: Smooth, slightly sticky when moist
- Growth Form: Solitary or scattered
- Spore Print: White
- Body color: Scarlet red to orange-red
- Odor: Not distinctive
- Flesh bruises: Does not typically bruise
- Height: 3-7 cm
- Cap Diameter: 2-5 cm
- Nutrient gathering: Saprophytic
Safe
SafeHygrocybe coccinea is generally considered non-toxic, but it is not typically consumed due to its small size and waxy texture. There are no known reports of significant toxicity associated with this species.
Quick Check
- Odor: Not distinctive
- Fruiting: Autumn
- Substrate: Grasslands, woodlands
Where to Find
Grasslands
Commonly found in unimproved grasslands, especially those that are not heavily fertilized or disturbed.
Woodlands
Can also be found in open woodlands, particularly in areas with mosses and decaying organic matter.
Finding Tips
Look in Autumn
The best time to find Hygrocybe coccinea is in the autumn months, particularly after periods of rain.
Check Undisturbed Areas
Focus on areas that have not been heavily disturbed by agriculture or development, as these mushrooms prefer undisturbed habitats.
Similar Species
Crimson Waxcap
mushroom
Also known as: Hygrocybe punicea
Meadow Waxcap
mushroom
Also known as: Cuphophyllus pratensis
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Basidiomycota
- Class
- Agaricomycetes
- Order
- Agaricales
- Family
- Hygrophoraceae
- Genus
- Hygrocybe
Storage Information
- Max Temperature: 4
- Freezing duration: N/A
- Min Temperature: 2
- Refrigeration: 2-3 days
How to Clean
Cleaning Hygrocybe coccinea involves gently brushing off any dirt or debris from the cap and stem. Avoid washing them, as they can absorb water and become soggy. A soft brush or a dry cloth is usually sufficient.
Explore Scarlet Waxcap
Identify mushrooms anywhere
Free on iOS, Android, and Web. Photo identification, full database, and your personal collection.