The Scarlet Elf Cup is one of the most magnificently colored mushrooms we have here in Vermont. Its bright red interior and unique cup shape is sure to impress any walker by. One of the very first fungus to appear in early spring, the scarlet red color is always a welcome sight after a long dark winter.
Names
The scientific name of this fungus is Sarcoscypha coccinea. The genus Sacosycpha are cup shaped fungus and the name comes from the Greek word for a drinking bowl. Common names for this mushroom are few, and are limited to Scarlet Elf Cup or Elf Cap.
Range and Habitat
The scarlet elf cap is found all over the world from Canada to Australia to Africa. It is found on decaying sticks and branches in damp areas. Often slightly buried under the leaf litter or tucked into some moss.
Identifying Characteristics
The Scarlet Elf Cup fungus can be identified using the following key characteristics:
- The fungus is shaped like that of a small bowl or cup.
- It has a bright red or scarlet color for the interior of the bowl.
- The outside of the bowl has a whiteish peach color to it.
- The mushroom is found growing on sticks or branches on the forest floor.
- It be found singly or in clusters
- The fungus is most prevalent in early Spring.
Edibility and Uses
The edibility of this fungus seems to be unknown. There are numerous sources claiming the mushroom is edible, not edible, and or not choice. After nibbling on the mushroom myself, I think it has a strong “mushroomy” flavor which may be pleasing in soups.
The most common use of the Scarlet Elf Cup is decorative. It’s bright red flesh and unique cup shape can make for an interesting table decoration or art piece.
Scarlet Elf Cup Photo Gallery
Sometimes the best way to familiarize yourself with a fungus is to look at pictures. This is because mushrooms can often look very different depending on the stage of growth they are at.
A scarlet elf cup growing on a stick as is typical. The scarlet elf cup