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The Orange Woodwax (Hygrophorus pudorinus) is a mycorrhizal fungus that associates with coniferous trees. It is characterized by its large size, slimy orange cap, and pale stem. While not considered highly toxic, it is generally not recommended for consumption due to its potential to cause gastrointestinal upset in some individuals.
How to Identify
- Cap
- The cap is orange to apricot-colored, slimy when moist, and convex to flattened with age. It can reach a diameter of 5-15 cm.
- Gills
- The gills are decurrent, waxy, and widely spaced, with a pale orange to cream color.
- Stem
- The stem is pale orange to cream-colored, slimy when moist, and smooth. It is typically 5-12 cm long and 1-3 cm thick.
- Flesh
- The flesh is white to pale orange, thick, and firm.
- Fruiting body
- Large and fleshy with a slimy orange cap and decurrent gills.
- Habitat
- Found in coniferous forests, associated with spruce and fir trees.
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: Slimy when moist, smooth when dry
- Growth Form: Solitary to scattered
- Spore Print: White
- Body color: Orange to apricot
- Odor: Mild and pleasant
- Flesh bruises: No significant bruising
- Height: 5-12 cm
- Cap Diameter: 5-15 cm
- Nutrient gathering: Mycorrhizal
Safe
Mild ToxicityWhile not considered highly toxic, some individuals may experience gastrointestinal upset after consuming Hygrophorus pudorinus.
Quick Check
- Odor: Mild, pleasant
- Fruiting: Late summer to autumn
- Substrate: Coniferous forest floor
Where to Find
Coniferous Forests
Found in coniferous forests, particularly under spruce and fir trees.
Moist Forest Areas
Prefers moist, mossy areas within the forest.
Finding Tips
Seasonal Timing
Look for them in late summer to autumn, especially after rainfall.
Habitat Clues
Check under coniferous trees, especially where there is a thick layer of needles.
Similar Species
Meadow Waxcap
Hygrophorus
Also known as: Camarophyllus pratensis
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Basidiomycota
- Class
- Agaricomycetes
- Order
- Agaricales
- Family
- Hygrophoraceae
- Genus
- Hygrophorus
Storage Information
- Max Temperature: 4
- Freezing duration: 3 months
- Min Temperature: 2
- Refrigeration: 3-5 days
How to Clean
Gently wipe the cap and stem with a damp cloth to remove any debris. Avoid soaking in water, as the mushroom is already quite moist.
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