SCIENTIFIC NAME: SARCOSCYPHA AUSTRIACA
VERNACULAR NAME: SCARLET ELF CUP
Fig 1
FRUIT BODY 2 - 6cm cup shaped fruiting body with a pinkish cream outer surface that is covered in microscopic hairs which are vital to the final identification. The margin is incurved and the inner surface is a striking scarlet red colour that fades as the fungus dries. There is a short stalk that is usually whitish.
GILLS/PORES N/A
FLESH Brittle and tasteless. No aroma.
SPORES Hyaline, smooth, elliptical with small oil droplets. (Link)
HABITAT Usually in groups on twigs and branches of dead wood.
SEASON Frequent.  Late winter to early spring.
EDIBILITY Edible. a

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