Hygrocybe punicea
Fast facts
- Common names
- Crimson Waxcap
- Scientific name
- Hygrocybe punicea
- When to See It
- September-December
Description
In general, this is the largest of the waxcaps, with a dark red cap that is greasy to slightly slimy, sometimes showing brownish tones and a paler yellow margin. The gills are narrowly attached, starting pale yellow before becoming buff to reddish brown, often with a faint purplish tinge. The stem is fibrous and tapers slightly, typically red above and paling to whitish towards the base.
Identifying Crimson Waxcap
A large and robust waxcap, with a cap typically 3–10 cm across, deep blood-red to dark red when fresh. It begins conical before flattening, often retaining a slight central bump, and has a greasy to slightly slimy surface. With age, the colour often fades from the centre to yellowish or straw tones, sometimes leaving a red margin. The gills are yellow, becoming flushed with red as the fruitbody matures, and are narrowly attached or almost free. The stem is distinctive, red towards the top and fading to yellow with a whitish base, dry and slightly fibrous.
Lookalikes
This species can be confused with the Splendid Waxcap Hygrocybe splendidissima. However, that species has a dry cap, a smooth stem, and develops a distinct honey-like smell as it dries, helping to separate it from Crimson Waxcap.
When to Find Them
This is an uncommon species in the region, best searched for in ancient grasslands, moorland and fixed dunes, typically fruiting from September to December.
Interesting Fact
The Crimson Waxcap is an uncommon species and is listed as Vulnerable on the Global Fungal Red List. It is also a strong indicator of high-quality grassland, and its presence often suggests that other notable grassland fungi may be found nearby.
Join the hunt for North East Waxcaps
Urban or rural, beginner or expert, we need your help to record twelve distinctive waxcaps across the North East this autumn.
Your records can add to our understanding of these colourful fungi in the region and inform conservation and monitoring efforts.
Taking part is easy and every record counts, wherever you live in the region. Records of all waxcap species are encouraged.
