The Gypsy

The Gypsy Rozites caperatus (Pers.) P. Karst. (illustrated 50% life size) Cap 5–10cm across, convex then expanded and umbonate; ochre-buff to ochre-brown; covered in silky, white, cobwebby fibrils, more densely at the centre. Stem 40–70×10–15mm, slightly swollen at the base or bulbous, whitish; ring whitish, narrow, spreading. Flesh whitish, tinged ochre; taste and smell mild and pleasant. Gills free; pale clay. Spores 10–13×8–9¼, elliptical, finely warted. Spore print ochre-brown. Habitat on damp acid soils, usually in open situations amongst conifers and heather; autumn. Confined to the Highlands of Scotland; virtually unknown in the south of England. Occasional, vulnerable on Red Data List. Edible. Note one day this may move to be part of Cortinarius.