Herald of Winter Hygrophorus hypothejus (Fr.) Fr. (illustrated 55% life size) Cap 3–6cm across, hemispherical then flattening, sometimes with a depressed centre; olive-brown with paler margin; slimy. Stem 40–70×7–14mm; whitish, tinged yellow or orange; slimy below the ring-like zone. Flesh whitish to pale yellow, bruising orange-red. Gills decurrent; pale yellow. Spores 7–9×4–5¼, ellipsoid to ovoid. Spore print white. Habitat in pine woods; late autumn, often appearing after the first frosts. Frequent. Edible but not recommended, too slimy.
