Scarlet waxcrust is a visually striking fungus with vibrant orange to red colors. It typically grows on wood, often being found on dead or decaying trees, using its fibrous body to break down the wood's cellulose. Scarlet waxcrust is notable for its role in forest ecosystems, aiding in the decomposition process and nutrient cycling. Its distinctive hue makes it easy to spot during a forest walk.
Odor:
Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.
In This Article
Attributes
Similar Species
Tips for Finding
Clean and Preserve
Common Questions
General Info About Scarlet waxcrust
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Attributes of Scarlet waxcrust
Height
2 - 3.5 mm
Cap
20 cm across; scarlet orange to brownish red, eventually reddish brown; dry, secondary surface finely hairy
Flesh
Waxy-tenacious
Spore Print Color
White
Odor
Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.
Body Color
Brown
Yellow
Red
Orange
Flesh Bruises
The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.
Growth Form
Clustered
Nutrient Gathering
Saprophytic
Substrate
Dead Woods
You can find Scarlet waxcrust by these plants:
Spruces
Occurence Habitats
Deciduous Woodland
Species Status
Widely distributed in North America
Endangered Species
No
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Habitat of Scarlet waxcrust
Scarlet waxcrust thrives on decaying hardwoods, particularly favoring deadwood of oaks and similar trees.
