Hydnellum peckii
Mycologia 5(4): 203. 1913.
Common Name: none
For descriptions see Hall & Stuntz, Banker, & 'California Mushrooms'.
Solitary to scattered, seldom connate, in duff under conifers (Sitka spruce, Douglas fir, western hemlock, pine); fruiting from fall through mid-winter, widespread in northern coastal coniferous forests.
Inedible, very acrid.
Young Hydnellum peckii are striking and unmistakable, with a pure white cap that exudes deep red droplets. With age, the cap becomes dark brown to reddish brown, develops knobs and scales, and loses its signature red droplets. It then may be confused with Hydnellum scrobiculatum, which has a mild or faintly farinaceous taste.
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Banker, H.J. (1913). Type Studies in the Hydnaceae: V. The Genus Hydnellum. Mycologia 5(4): 194-205. (Protologue)
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Hall, D. & Stuntz, D.E. (1972). Pileate Hydnaceae of the Puget Sound Area III. Brown-Spored Genus: Hydnellum. Mycologia 64(3): 560-590. (PDF)
Siegel, N. & Schwarz, C. (2016). Mushrooms of the Redwood Coast. Ten Speed Press: Berkeley, CA. 601 p.
