Scarlet Elf Cup

Sarcoscypha coccinea

— Non-Edible

Do not eat — not considered edible; may be used medicinally or for study only

Cap color: Brilliant scarlet inside, pale outside
Cap size: 2-5cm
Gill color: N/A — cup fungus
Gill attachment: N/A
Stem: N/A — cup fungus
Texture: Thin and waxy
Habitat: On buried sticks and twigs in damp areas
Fruiting season: Winter-Spring
Peak season: Winter-Spring

Key Identification Features

Brilliant scarlet cup-shaped fruiting body 2-5cm
pink outer surface
wavy margin
on buried sticks and twigs
one of the earliest spring fungi
visually stunning

Preparation Notes

Not typically eaten. Sometimes used as garnish. Edibility variable. Primarily of aesthetic value.

Regions Found

Northeast

Look-Alikes

No documented look-alikes on record.

Safety disclaimer: This page is for educational purposes only. Never eat a wild mushroom based solely on online information. Always verify identification using multiple reliable field guides and, when possible, consult an experienced forager or mycologist. When in doubt, don't eat it. Spore & Scout accepts no responsibility for identification errors or adverse reactions.