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Copper spike

Chroogomphus ochraceus

A species of Pine-spikes

Copper spike belongs to a family noted for mushrooms that have a close relationship with pine trees, often found growing near them. It's recognized by its rusty orange to brown cap, which is typically sticky when wet. The gills beneath the cap are spaced and change in color as copper spike matures. This species is an integral part of forest ecosystems, helping decompose organic matter on the forest floor.

Cap Diameter:

3 - 10 cm

Odor:

Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.

General Info About Copper spike

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Attributes of Copper spike

Cap Diameter

3 - 10 cm

Height

4 - 20 cm

Cap

Cap 2 - 12 cm across; convex; yellowish to orangish, reddish brown; surface smooth

Cap Shape

Convex, Depressed, Central Bump

Cap Surfaces

Smooth, Slimy or slightly sticky

Gills

Decurrent; distant; pale yellowish to grayish cinnamon to blackish

Gill Attachment

Decurrent

Stem

Stem 3.5 - 18 cm long, 2.5 cm thick; tapering to base; yellowish to pale orangish; with partial veil

Stem Shapes

Tapering

Stem Surfaces

Fibrillose

Flesh

Pinkish, yellowish

Ring

Near the apex of the stem; orange

Ring

With Ring Zone

Spore Print Color

Dark gray to black

Odor

Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.

Body Color

Brown

Yellow

Red

Orange

Purple

Growth Form

Solitary, Scattered, Gregarious

Nutrient Gathering

Mycorrhizal

Substrate

On soil

You can find Copper spike by these plants:

Pines, Firs

Occurence Habitats

Coniferous Woodland

Species Status

Widely distributed

Endangered Species

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Habitat of Copper spike

Copper spike typically thrives in coniferous woodland areas, often found in association with pine trees.

Scientific Classification of Copper spike

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Boletes and allies

Family

Gomphidiaceae

Genus

Pine-spikes

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Tips for Finding Copper spike

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What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Copper spike

Well-drained, often acidic pine-associated soils.

What are Some Tips for Finding Copper spike

Look for copper spike in coniferous forests, giving special attention to areas with pine tree presence.
Search near the base of trees, as copper spike tends to grow in proximity to its associated conifers.
Examine small groups of fungi rather than looking for large clusters, as copper spike often grows scattered or singly.
Prioritize well-drained areas with a likelihood of acidic soil for the best chance to locate copper spike.
Be thorough yet gentle when searching to avoid disturbing the natural habitat and potentially missing out on finding copper spike.

How to Clean and Preserve Copper spike

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Common Questions People Also Ask

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