✅ Edibility Note
While Laccaria laccata is considered edible, it can be confused with other species that may be toxic. Always consult a local expert or reliable field guide before foraging.
Description
Laccaria laccata is a small to medium-sized mushroom with a distinctive orange to reddish-brown cap that is often sticky when wet. The gills are closely spaced and free from the stem, and the stem is slender and often has a slightly bulbous base.
Key Identification Features
Field marks recorded for this species. Work through all of them, not just one:
- Cap color ranges from orange to reddish-brown
- Sticky or slimy cap surface when wet
- Gills are free and closely spaced
- Slender stem with a bulbous base
- Spore print is white to pale cream
Habitat & Distribution
Habitat: Typically found in moist, acidic soils in coniferous and deciduous forests, often in association with tree roots.
Region: Widely distributed across North America, Europe, and parts of Asia.
Seasonality
Fruits from late summer to early winter, typically after rainfall.
Typical months: Aug-Dec
Common Lookalikes
Always verify identification to avoid these similar species:
- Laccaria amethystina (edible) - distinguished by its purple cap and gills
- Laccaria proxima (unknown) - has a more robust stem and a darker cap
- Gymnopilus underwoodii (poisonous) - has a more pronounced, darker cap and a different spore print color
Related Species
Browse all species in the Mushroom Database →
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