How to identify Rosy Agaric

To correctly identify Rosy Agaric (Hygrophorus erubescens), 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, with a pinkish to reddish color. It can be slightly sticky when moist.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   The gills are adnate to decurrent, white to pinkish, and widely spaced.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   The stem is cylindrical, white to pinkish, and smooth to slightly fibrillose.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is white to pinkish, and does not change color when cut.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   Medium-sized mushroom with a pinkish to reddish cap and a smooth stem.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Coniferous forests, especially under pine and fir trees.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Smooth, slightly sticky when moist

Growth Form

Solitary to scattered

Spore Print

White

Body color

Pinkish to reddish

Odor

Mild, not distinctive

Flesh bruises

No color change

Height

5-12 cm

Cap Diameter

5-15 cm

Fruit body characteristics

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

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