Gomphidius (young and old)

Description:

This handsome Gomphidius is characterized by a rose-red to pink, viscid cap, white, decurrent gills, thin slimy veil, and a yellowish stipe base. The well-spaced, white, waxy gills of young specimens sometimes causes confusion with species of Hygrophorus. The latter, however, can be distinguished by white to pale-colored, not blackish spores. Other Gomphidius species in our area include Gomphidius glutinosus and G. oregonensis. Gomphidius glutinosus is found commonly under Douglas fir and has a greyish to lilac-grey, viscid cap. Gomphidius oregonensis tends to be larger, frequently occurs in clusters, has a dingy-orange, reddish-brown, to greyish-brown, viscid cap, and smaller spores.

Habitat:

Solitary to scattered under conifers, especially Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii); fruiting from early to mid-winter.

Notes:

Edible, but mediocre; the viscid cuticle (pellicle) should be removed.