How to identify Silky Rosegill

To correctly identify Silky Rosegill (Volvopluteus gloiocephalus), 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 5–15 cm (2–6 in) in diameter, fleshy, and ranges from oval when young to convex or flat in maturity. The cap surface is smooth and moist, often with radial wrinkles, and varies in color from white to gray or brownish. It lacks any veil remnants.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   The gills are free from the stem, crowded, and initially white, turning pinkish as the spores mature. They are easily separable from the cap.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   The stem is 8–22 cm (3–9 in) long and 1–2.5 cm (0.4–1 in) thick, cylindrical or slightly tapering upwards, and white to pale gray. The base of the stem is enclosed in a volva, which is a sac-like structure. The stem lacks a ring.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is white and does not change color when cut.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   The fruiting body is fleshy and typically medium to large in size.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   It grows in grassy areas, gardens, and disturbed soil, often in urban environments. It can appear solitarily or in groups, typically from summer to autumn.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Smooth, moist, often with radial wrinkles

Growth Form

Solitary or in groups

Spore Print

Pinkish

Body color

White, gray, or brownish

Odor

Mild or indistinct

Flesh bruises

Does not change color

Height

8–22 cm (3–9 in)

Cap Diameter

5–15 cm (2–6 in)

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Free
• Stem shape: Cylindrical or slightly tapering upwards
• Stem surface: Smooth
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: Solid

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