Species details

Pale scalycap

Pholiota lenta

Inedible
Pale scalycap – Pholiota lenta

Photo: Jerzy Opioła · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Photo source · License

Description

A pale scalycap with a very slimy cap containing scattered white flakes or scales.

Identification features

Cap 4–7 cm, whitish to ochre or yellowish, very slimy when wet. White flaky scales are loosely attached and can appear to float in the slime. Gills start whitish and become light brown.

Identification checklist

The key combination is a very slimy pale cap with loosely attached white flakes or scales.

Detailed features

Cap
Cap 4–7 cm, whitish to ochre or yellowish, very slimy when wet.
Hymenophore
The gills are initially whitish and later pale brown.

Size

Cap diameter
4–7 cm

Habitat

Grows in groups on fallen wood in deciduous, coniferous and mixed woodland, mainly in autumn.

Fruiting period

October, November

Ecology

Substrate
Wood
Notes
Grows in groups on fallen wood in deciduous, coniferous and mixed woodland, mainly in autumn.

How to separate similar species

Pholiota gummosa and P. spumosa can look similar; confidence should be lower when slime and scales are not clearly shown.

Similar species

Extended-description sources