Species details
Shaggy scalycap
Pholiota squarrosa
Conditional / expert preparation
Photo: Nina Filippova · CC BY 4.0 · Photo source · License
Description
A yellow-ochre Pholiota with conspicuous reddish-brown raised scales on cap and stem, growing in clusters on wood.
Identification features
The cap is 5–12 cm, yellow-ochre, dry and covered with reddish-brown raised scales. Gills are initially yellow, later brownish. The stem bears a ring and many brown scales below it.
Identification checklist
Check the dry surface, large raised cap scales and scaly stem below the ring. It grows directly on wood.
How to separate similar species
Honey fungi have different cap features and spore print; other Pholiota may be sticky. Use caution with clustered wood-growing mushrooms.
Habitat
Grows in autumn and early winter in clusters on living or dead hardwood and conifer wood.
Fruiting period
September, October, November, December