How to identify Orange Woodwax

To correctly identify Orange Woodwax (Hygrophorus pudorinus), 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 orange to apricot-colored, slimy when moist, and convex to flattened with age. It can reach a diameter of 5-15 cm.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   The gills are decurrent, waxy, and widely spaced, with a pale orange to cream color.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   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.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is white to pale orange, thick, and firm.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   Large and fleshy with a slimy orange cap and decurrent gills.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   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

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Decurrent (running down the stem)
• Stem shape: Cylindrical or slightly tapered
• Stem surface: Slimy when moist, smooth when dry
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: Solid

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