Slimy Waxcap

Slimy Waxcap Hygrocybe irrigata (Pers.) Bon. syn. Hygrophorus unguinosus (Fr.) Fr. (illustrated 60% life size) Cap 2–4cm across, convex or bell-shaped; greyish-brown; very shiny (this collection is dry and thus looks rather pale and dull). Stem 4–60×3–6mm, slightly wavy and tapering towards base; concolorous with cap, base whitish; very slimy. Flesh greyish; taste mild, smell not distinctive. Gills adnate with a decurrent tooth, widely spaced but connected by veins; whitish. Spores 7–8.5×4–5¼, broadly elliptical or oval. Spore print white. Habitat in short grass in pastures or open woodland; late autumn. Common. Unknown edibility. Note In my first book this illustration was named Hycrocybe unguinosa.