How to identify Scaly Hedgehog Mushroom

To correctly identify Scaly Hedgehog Mushroom (Sarcodon imbricatus), 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 typically 5-25 cm in diameter, convex to flattened, and covered in dark brown to grayish-brown scales. The margin is often wavy and irregular.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   Instead of gills, it has closely packed, brittle spines or teeth on the underside of the cap. These spines are typically whitish to grayish and decurrent (running down the stem).

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   The stem is stout, short, and often eccentric (off-center), typically 3-8 cm long and 1-3 cm thick. It is usually the same color as the cap or slightly lighter.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is thick and whitish, often bruising brownish when cut or damaged. It can be bitter, especially in older specimens.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   The fruiting body is large and fleshy, with a distinctive appearance due to its scales and spines.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Found in coniferous forests, often under pine or spruce trees. It forms mycorrhizal associations with these trees.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Scaly

Growth Form

Mycorrhizal

Spore Print

Brown

Body color

Brown to grayish-brown

Odor

Earthy

Flesh bruises

Brownish

Height

3-8 cm

Cap Diameter

5-25 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Decurrent spines
• Stem shape: Stout, eccentric
• Stem surface: Smooth to slightly scaly
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: Solid

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