How to identify Orange Bonnet

To correctly identify Orange Bonnet (Mycena acicula), 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 conical to bell-shaped, with a smooth, bright orange surface. It often has translucent striations when moist.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   The gills are adnate to slightly decurrent, widely spaced, and pale orange to yellowish in color.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   The stem is slender, cylindrical, and has the same color as the cap or slightly paler. The base of the stem may be slightly hairy.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is thin and fragile, with a color similar to the cap.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   The fruiting body of Mycena acicula is small and delicate, with a cap diameter typically ranging from 0.3 to 1 cm. The stem is thin and wiry, measuring 2 to 6 cm in length and about 1 mm in diameter.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Mycena acicula is commonly found growing on decaying wood, such as fallen branches, twigs, and leaf litter in forests and wooded areas. It prefers moist environments and is often found in shaded locations.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Smooth

Growth Form

Saprophytic

Spore Print

White

Body color

Orange

Odor

Not distinctive

Flesh bruises

No bruising

Height

2-6 cm

Cap Diameter

0.3-1 cm

Fruit body characteristics

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

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