Scarlet Elf Cup
ExploreFungi
Scarlet Elf Cup
Sarcoscypha
The Scarlet Elf Cup is a bright red fungus that looks like a tiny cup! You can find it in damp, shady areas.
Habitat: Damp, shady areas
Appearance
The Scarlet Elf Cup is a striking bright red, cup-shaped mushroom, often appearing like tiny bowls scattered on the forest floor. Its vibrant color makes it stand out against drab winter wood and moss, with a paler pinkish-white exterior.
KingdomFungiPhylumAscomycotaClassPezizomycetesOrderPezizalesFamilySarcoscyphaceaeGenusSarcoscypha
Category
FungiRarity
Rare
Danger
1/5
Snaps
13
Interesting facts
Ancient folklore says tiny elves used these vibrant cups as drinking vessels!
If gently squeezed, the Scarlet Elf Cup can sometimes release a puff of white spores!
Its bright red color comes from special pigments called carotenoids, like in carrots!
They are one of the first wild mushrooms to appear after winter snow melts!
Special abilities
Ability
Decay Dynamo
Scarlet Elf Cup can break down dead wood into nutrients because of special enzymes that help them recycle forest materials.
Ability
Spore Shooter
Scarlet Elf Cup has a special cup shape that helps them launch spores into the air for travel and new growth.
Ability
Winter Warrior
Scarlet Elf Cup can grow and thrive in cold winter conditions, allowing them to appear when other fungi are hidden.
Measurements & details
- Height
- 1-4 cm
- Edibility
- edible
- Cap Diameter
- 2-7 cm
- Growth Substrate
- wood
- Season
- Winter to early spring
- Spore Color
- White
Ecological connections
Traits
Fruit Bearing
These amazing plants develop fruits, which often contain seeds and are sometimes delicious treats for us or wildlife. They're nature's way of spreading new life!
Spore Producing
Discover how some plants and fungi create tiny little "seeds" called spores to help them grow new life! These tiny particles drift in the air, spreading new generations far and wide.
Colorful
Discover amazing plants and animals that show off a dazzling array of bright and beautiful hues! They use their vibrant colors to attract attention or send signals.
Forest
These lush habitats are filled with countless trees, offering homes to a huge variety of plants and animals! Immerse yourself in the green canopy.
Also known as
Red Cup FungusScarlet Cup
Collections
Safety
Danger
1/5
Do not pick or eat anything you find. Some plants and mushrooms can be harmful.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall is Scarlet Elf Cup?
1-4 cm
Is Scarlet Elf Cup edible?
edible
How big is Scarlet Elf Cup?
2-7 cm
Where is Scarlet Elf Cup usually found?
Damp, shady areas
What does Scarlet Elf Cup grow on?
wood
When is Scarlet Elf Cup in season?
Winter to early spring
What color are Scarlet Elf Cup spores?
White
Snap Map
Zoom in to split clusters and explore where this object has been snapped.
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