Gomphidius subroseus

Gomphidius subroseus, commonly known as the rosy gomphidius and rosy slimespike, is a species of gilled mushroom.

Taxonomy

The species was first described by Calvin Henry Kauffman in 1925.

Description

The cap is pinkish tan and up to wide. The stem is 3–7 cm long and about 1–2 cm wide. The veil may leave a ring. The gills are deeply decurrent and the spore print is dark gray to black.

Similar species

Gomphidius smithii has a less pink cap. The pink pigment of Hygrophorus caps is less defined and the gills are primarily adnate.

Distribution and habitat

It is found in Europe and North America. It appears from July to September in the Mountain states and September–November on the West Coast.

Ecology

It was once thought to be mycorrhizal with Pinus sylvestris. However, Olson et al. found it to be more likely to be parasitic on Suillus bovinus, which is apparently mycorrhizal with P. sylvestris.

Edibility

It is considered edible but of low quality. As with other species of the genus, removing the glutinous cuticle improves the taste. It is an accumulator of heavy metals.