Because of their brilliant colours, Waxcaps are among the most spectacular fungi - the “orchids of the fungus world”. However, their growth is highly sensitive to ploughing and artificial fertilizers. As a result, they have become increasing rare due to intensive agriculture. These fungi are now almost entirely restricted to unimproved grasslands and lawns. As part of the Tyntesfield conservation work, members of the NSBFG have been surveying the fungi on the site. The initial observation of waxcaps on the Tyntesfield lawns was an exciting discovery and the subsequent audit, which has identified 23 species of Hygrocybe, has revealed Tyntesfield to be a nationally important site for these fungi. Waxcaps are principally found in late autumn, but, as in 2007, some will appear in summer after extensive rainfall. More images.

Latest News: 5 more species identified in 2007. Hygrocybe helobia was found in July. Amongst the very large numbers of waxcaps that appeared in late October were H. miniata (Vermillion Waxcap), H. phaeococcinea, H. punicea (Crimson Waxcap) and H. reidii (Honey Waxcap), making a total of 23 waxcaps - 20 species and 2 varieties - nearly half the UK list in an area of less than 2 hectares.

Typical waxcaps (Hygrocybe species) showing bright colours and shiny, often sticky caps.

Top left: H. coccinea (Scarlet Waxcap).

Top right: H. glutinipes (Glutinous Waxcap).

Bottom left: H. virginea (Snowy Waxcap).

Bottom right: H. irrigata