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Surprise webcap
A species of Cortinar, Also known as Red-gilled webcap Scientific name : Cortinarius semisanguineus Genus : Cortinar
Surprise webcap, A species of Cortinar
Also known as:
Red-gilled webcap
Scientific name: Cortinarius semisanguineus
Genus: Cortinar
![Surprise webcap (Cortinarius semisanguineus)](/wiki-image/1080/153834583144529947.jpeg)
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Description
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The subdued yellow or beige caps of the surprise webcap (Cortinarius semisanguineus) do indeed hide a surprise - underneath the cap, this mushroom boasts gorgeous, ruby or maroon-red gills. While not considered edible, the surprise webcap is still sought-after - it can be used to produce a deep and lovely red-brown dye.
Colors
Brown
Yellow
Red
Habitat
The surprise webcap is primarily found in coniferous forests, including spruce plantations, and some mixed woodlands. Fruitbodies grow up from the ground, often in mossy areas, above the roots of a host conifer tree. This fungus feeds in a symbiotic relationship with the tree’s roots, helping it absorb water and nutrients while the tree provides it sugars and amino acids.
* Disclaimer: Content feedback CAN NOT be used as any basis for EATING ANY PLANTS. Some plants can be VERY POISONOUS, please purchase edible plants through regular channels.
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People often ask
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General Info
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Toxicity
Surprise webcap potentially contains dangerous toxins that could be harmful if consumed. It closely resembles certain red Cortinarius species known to contain the toxin orellanine, which can damage human kidneys and liver. Determining precise species within the Cortinarius genus is challenging due to its vastness and overlapping characteristics. Found mycorrhizal with conifers, especially pines, it's commonly seen alone or scattered, often in moss, during summer and fall across North America.
Habitat
The surprise webcap is primarily found in coniferous forests, including spruce plantations, and some mixed woodlands. Fruitbodies grow up from the ground, often in mossy areas, above the roots of a host conifer tree. This fungus feeds in a symbiotic relationship with the tree’s roots, helping it absorb water and nutrients while the tree provides it sugars and amino acids.
Growth Form
Mycorrhizal; solitary, scattered
Sporocarp Height
4 inches
Cap Diameter
2 inches
Endangered Species
No
Habit
Mycorrhizal
Substrate
On soil
Smell
Mild or radishlike
Spore Print
Rusty brown
Species Status
Widely distributed
Distribution Area
North America,Europe
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How to identify it?
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Scientific Classification
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Phylum
Club fungi Class
Mushroom-forming fungi Order
Gilled fungi Family
Cortinariaceae Genus
Cortinar Species
Surprise webcap