Hypholoma capnoides
Approximately 2 species in Santa Cruz County.
Hypholoma Records from Santa Cruz County:
Hypholoma are easily recognized by their clustered, brightly colored fruitbodies that emerge from decaying wood, and that produce dark purplish-gray spore deposits. Some species are edible while others are highly toxic. None are very highly sought after for the table.
Abundant and widespread, these mushrooms are important wood-decayers in our forest ecosystems, decomposing the woody remains of a wide range of tree species.
Important identification characters include coloration, taste, and host tree species (hardwood or conifer?).