How to identify Scaly Pholiota

To correctly identify Scaly Pholiota (Pholiota squarrosa), 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 convex to broadly convex, measuring 4-12 cm in diameter. It is dry and covered with recurved, pointed scales. The color ranges from yellowish-brown to rusty-brown.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   The gills are adnate to slightly decurrent, closely spaced, and yellowish to brownish. They may become spotted with age.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   The stem is 4-12 cm long and 1-2 cm thick, cylindrical, and scaly below the ring. The color is similar to the cap, and it often has a persistent, cottony ring.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is firm and whitish to yellowish. It does not have a distinctive odor or taste.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   The fruiting body of Pholiota squarrosa is characterized by a scaly cap and stem, with a yellowish-brown to rusty-brown color. It typically grows in clusters on wood.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Pholiota squarrosa grows in clusters on the dead wood of deciduous trees, particularly beech, birch, and maple. It is commonly found in forests and woodlands.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Dry, scaly

Growth Form

Clustered

Spore Print

Brown

Body color

Yellowish-brown to rusty-brown

Odor

Not distinctive

Flesh bruises

No bruising

Height

4-12 cm

Cap Diameter

4-12 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Adnate to slightly decurrent
• Stem shape: Cylindrical
• Stem surface: Scaly below the ring
• Ring: Persistent, cottony
• Stem cross-section: Solid

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