Due to its unknown edibility, it is recommended to avoid consumption unless positively identified by an expert.
Hygrocybe punicea is characterized by its bright red to scarlet cap, which is smooth and conical to bell-shaped. The gills are closely spaced and white to pale yellow, while the stem is slender and often has a similar bright coloration as the cap.
Field marks recorded for this species. Work through all of them, not just one:
| Family | Hygrophoraceae |
|---|---|
| Genus | Hygrocybe |
| Edibility | Edibility unrecorded |
| Toxicity | none |
| Season | Aug-Oct |
| Habitat | Typically found in grassy areas, often in mossy or damp environments, particularly in meadows and pastures. |
| Region | Widely distributed in temperate regions, particularly in Europe and North America. |
Habitat: Typically found in grassy areas, often in mossy or damp environments, particularly in meadows and pastures.
Region: Widely distributed in temperate regions, particularly in Europe and North America.
Fruits from late summer to early autumn.
Typical months: Aug-Oct
Always verify identification to avoid these similar species. The differentiator is the point — learn the one or two tells that separate them:
has a more orange hue and a slightly different habitat preference
typically smaller and has a more orange-red cap
similar appearance but may have variations in cap color
Pin the patch before you leave it. Coordinates, photos, and field notes stay on your device — and the offline lookalike guide travels with you into the deep woods.
Download Mushroom TrackerDisclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only. Never consume a wild mushroom unless you are 100% certain of its identification.