Species details
Discolouring woodwax
Hygrophorus discoxanthus
Traditionally edible
Photo: Strobilomyces · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Photo source · License
Description
A pale woodwax from the white Hygrophorus group that yellows to browns with age and drying; the Slovenian source lists it as edible.
Identification features
The cap is whitish to cream and may become yellow-brown with age. Gills are pale, thick and spaced, typical of woodwaxes. The stem is pale and lacks a prominent ring.
Identification checklist
Check the typical woodwax build with thick spaced gills and the yellowing or browning of older parts. Compare several white Hygrophorus species.
How to separate similar species
Hygrophorus eburneus remains cleaner white, while H. cossus has a stronger unpleasant odour. White woodwaxes can be difficult to identify.
Habitat
Associated mainly with deciduous woodland, especially beech woods, and fruits in autumn.
Fruiting period
September, October, November