How to identify Meadow Waxcap

To correctly identify Meadow Waxcap (Hygrocybe pratensis), 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.

   Cap is convex, becoming flattened with age; color ranges from orange to apricot or yellowish; smooth and waxy texture.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   Gills are widely spaced, waxy, and decurrent (running down the stem).

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   Stem is smooth, cylindrical, and the same color as or slightly paler than the cap.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   Flesh is pale and thin.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   Small to medium-sized mushroom with a waxy cap and widely spaced gills.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Found in grasslands, meadows, and pastures.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Smooth, waxy

Growth Form

Solitary or scattered

Spore Print

White

Body color

Orange, apricot, yellowish

Odor

Mild, not distinctive

Flesh bruises

No bruising reaction

Height

3-8 cm

Cap Diameter

2-6 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Adnate to decurrent
• Stem shape: Cylindrical or tapering slightly towards the base
• Stem surface: Smooth
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: Solid

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