Porpolomopsis calyptriformis
Did you Know?
This pale pink fungus is rare and vulnerable to extinction due to declines in ancient grasslands across the National Landscape. It is found in old, undisturbed and unimproved grassland. These are usually natural and semi natural pastures and meadows, but occasionally it can be found in churchyards and lawns of historic buildings. Its pink conical cap and white stem appear in late summer/autumn. As the cap opens it curls upwards giving the appearance of a ballerina tutu. The mycelium it relies on takes centuries to develop. Retaining ancient grasslands is the only way to support its conservation and expansion.
Fun Fact
The ballerina waxcap gets its name from its pink cap that resembles a ballerina's tutu as it opens.
Identification:
Pale pink to lilac, conical cap that flares and splits like a ballerina's tutu with age, a white stem and pale pink gills.