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Peziza badia, commonly known as the Hazel Cup or Alder Cup, is a saprobic fungus belonging to the Pezizaceae family. It is characterized by its cup-shaped fruiting body and is commonly found on decaying wood and soil.
How to Identify
- Cap
- The inner surface (hymenium) is smooth and reddish-brown to dark brown. The outer surface is paler and slightly rough.
- Gills
- No gills are present, as it is an ascomycete fungus.
- Stem
- The fungus lacks a true stem; the cup is directly attached to the substrate.
- Flesh
- The flesh is brittle and thin, with a pale brown color.
- Fruiting body
- The fruiting body is cup-shaped, typically 2-8 cm in diameter. It starts as a closed cup and expands to a saucer shape with age.
- Habitat
- It is commonly found on decaying wood, leaf litter, and soil in forests, particularly under hazel and alder trees.
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: Smooth inner surface, paler rough outer surface
- Growth Form: Cup-shaped
- Spore Print: White to pale yellow
- Body color: Reddish-brown to dark brown (inner), paler brown (outer)
- Odor: Mild, earthy
- Flesh bruises: Does not typically bruise
- Height: Up to 4 cm
- Cap Diameter: 2-8 cm
- Nutrient gathering: Saprobic
Safe
SafePeziza badia is generally considered non-toxic and edible, though it is not highly regarded for its flavor.
Quick Check
- Odor: Mild, earthy
- Fruiting: Cup-shaped
- Substrate: Decaying wood, leaf litter, soil
Where to Find
Europe
Common throughout Europe, especially in areas with hazel and alder trees.
North America
Found in various regions of North America, particularly in moist wooded areas.
Finding Tips
Look for Cup Shape
Search for cup-shaped fungi on the ground or on decaying wood, especially in damp areas.
Check Under Hazel and Alder Trees
Focus your search in areas where hazel and alder trees are present, as these are common habitats.
Similar Species
Peziza succosa
fungus
Also known as: Succulent Cup
Peziza varia
fungus
Also known as: Varying Cup Fungus
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Ascomycota
- Class
- Pezizomycetes
- Order
- Pezizales
- Family
- Pezizaceae
- Genus
- Peziza
Storage Information
- Max Temperature: N/A
- Freezing duration: N/A
- Min Temperature: Refrigerate at 2-4°C
- Refrigeration: 1-2 days (fresh)
How to Clean
Gently brush off any dirt or debris from the cup surface. Avoid washing with water unless necessary, as it can damage the delicate structure.
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