How to identify Hazel Cup

To correctly identify Hazel Cup (Peziza badia), 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 inner surface (hymenium) is smooth and reddish-brown to dark brown. The outer surface is paler and slightly rough.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   No gills are present, as it is an ascomycete fungus.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   The fungus lacks a true stem; the cup is directly attached to the substrate.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is brittle and thin, with a pale brown color.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   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.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   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

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: No gills
• Stem shape: Absent
• Stem surface: N/A
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: N/A

Explore Hazel Cup