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Crimson waxcap

Hygrocybe punicea

A species of Waxcaps, Also known as Crimson wax-cap

The crimson waxcap (Hygrocybe punicea) is one of the largest of the wax cap mushrooms. They have been called ‘the orchids of the fungi world.’ They present brilliant red-to-yellow shades on both cap and stem. Although they are beautiful, do not try and eat; crimson waxcaps can cause significant stomach distress.

Cap Diameter:

3 - 12 cm

Odor:

Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.

General Info About Crimson waxcap

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Attributes of Crimson waxcap

Cap Diameter

3 - 12 cm

Height

5 - 15 cm

Cap

Cap 2 - 10 cm; convex to conical, flat; dark red to dark reddish orange, fading to orange; smooth, bald

Cap Shape

Bell-shaped, Convex, Flat

Cap Surfaces

Smooth, Slimy or slightly sticky

Gills

Adnexed to the stem; distant or nearly so; pale yellow to reddish or orange

Gill Attachment

Notched

Stem

Stem 4 - 12 cm long, up to 2 cm thick; equal or slightly tapering at either end; yellow to orange, whitish at the base; dry, usually, soon splitting

Stem Shapes

Cylindrical

Stem Surfaces

Fibrillose

Stem Cross Sections

Hollow or cottony hollow

Flesh

Thin; yellowish, or whitish near the center

Ring

Ringless

Spore Print Color

White

Odor

Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.

Body Color

Yellow

Red

Orange

Flesh Bruises

The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.

Growth Form

Solitary, Scattered, Gregarious

Nutrient Gathering

Saprophytic

Substrate

On soil, Mosses

You can find Crimson waxcap by these plants:

Occurence Habitats

Coniferous Woodland, Deciduous Woodland, Meadows

Species Status

Vulnerable

Endangered Species

How to Identify Crimson waxcap

Fruiting Body Cap Flesh

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Habitat of Crimson waxcap

The crimson waxcap can be found in forest clearings and cropped grasslands where artificial fertilizers haven't been used. It often appears with coast redwood (Sequoia sempervirens), but its exact ecological role is still uncertain. This species may have some kind of symbiotic relationship with mosses.

Distribution Area of Crimson waxcap

North America,Europe,northern Asia

Hunting Values of Crimson waxcap

Most guides in Europe list it as edible, but some guides in North America have reported discomfort following consumption.

Uses of Crimson waxcap

Crimson waxcap is a mushroom with questionable edibility, indicating that while it may be consumed by some, its safety for human consumption is not well-established. Its practical applications are limited due to potential risks. Collectors should exercise caution and prioritize identification accuracy before considering culinary use. Crimson waxcap's popularity as an edible species is low, and it's important to remind enthusiasts of the possible health hazards associated with its consumption.

Scientific Classification of Crimson waxcap

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Gilled fungi

Family

Waxgills

Genus

Waxcaps

Similar Species to Crimson waxcap

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Tips for Finding Crimson waxcap

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When is the Best Time to Find Crimson waxcap

Search for crimson waxcap during late summer to fall, after rain, when the ground is moist and the weather is cool but not freezing.

What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Crimson waxcap

Prefers humus-rich, well-drained soil without artificial fertilizers.

What are Some Tips for Finding Crimson waxcap

Search in undisturbed grasslands or heath areas where the grass is short.
Look for crimson waxcap under hardwoods, especially in areas not regularly fertilized or ploughed.
Check around mosses as they might indicate a suitable habitat for crimson waxcap.
Explore scattered or gregarious growth patterns, primarily in organic-rich environments.

How to Clean and Preserve Crimson waxcap

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How to Clean Crimson waxcap

To clean crimson waxcap, brush off any dirt gently with a soft brush. Do not soak; if necessary, swiftly rinse and immediately pat dry to maintain their integrity.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Crimson waxcap

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying

Drying Duration

6 - 12 months

Store in airtight containers in cool, dark, dry place with low humidity and minimal temperature fluctuations.

Dehydrator drying: Ensures consistent air circulation and temperature for efficient moisture removal.

Oven drying: Control over low heat suitable for sensitive textures, with door slightly open for ventilation.

Air drying: Natural, slow process utilizing warm, dry air without additional energy costs.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of Crimson waxcap

Freezing Methods

Blanching Before Freezing

Freezing Duration

10 - 12 months

Blanching before freezing: Blanch to inhibit enzyme activity that leads to spoilage, then freeze quickly.

Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Crimson waxcap

Refrigerating Methods

Paper Bag Storage, Perforated Plastic Bag Storage

Temperature

2 - 4 ℃

Refrigerating Humidity

90 - 95 %

Refrigerating Duration

5 - 7 days

Paper Bag Storage: Store in paper bags to allow air circulation and absorb excess moisture, preventing spoilage.

Perforated Plastic Bag Storage: Use perforated plastic bags to protect texture while still allowing for some moisture release.

Common Questions People Also Ask

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