Rosy Spike

Rosy Spike Gomphidius roseus (Fr.) Fr. (illustrated 60% life size) Cap up to 5cm across, convex at first then flattened; coral, becoming more brick with age; very viscid. Stem 25–45×4–10mm; whitish, flushed with pink or vinaceous tint; white, glutinous veil leaving an indistinct ring zone. Flesh dirty white, tinted coral, occasionally dirty yellow in stem base; taste and smell not distinctive. Gills deeply decurrent; greyish, finally mouse-grey with olivaceous tinge. Spores 15.5–18.5×5–5.5¼, subfusiform. Spore print fuscous black. Habitat on acid soil with conifers, especially pines. Often collected with Suillus bovinus with which there may be a mutualistic relationship; autumn. Occasional. Edible but not recommended.