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.
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.
Field marks recorded for this species. Work through all of them, not just one:
| Family | Hydnaceae |
|---|---|
| Genus | Laccaria |
| Edibility | Edible* |
| Toxicity | none |
| Season | Aug-Dec |
| 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. |
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.
Fruits from late summer to early winter, typically after rainfall.
Typical months: Aug-Dec
Always verify identification to avoid these similar species. The differentiator is the point — learn the one or two tells that separate them:
distinguished by its purple cap and gills
has a more robust stem and a darker cap
has a more pronounced, darker cap and a different spore print 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.