Herald of Winter

The cap measures 3–6 cm (1+1⁄8–2+3⁄8 in) across, is yellowish to olive brown with a dark center and slimy surface, and has a rolled margin when young, flattening and becoming more funnel-shaped as it ages. The yellow gills are decurrent, and the flesh is pale yellow, turning orange-red when bruised. The slender stipe is 4–7 cm (1+5⁄8–2+3⁄4 in) tall and 0.7–1.4 cm (1⁄4–1⁄2 in) wide. The colour can become more intense with the onset of frosts. The spore print is white and the oval spores measure 7–9 x 4–5 micrometres.

Similar species. A number of species in the genus are similar, including H. speciosus. It could also be confused with Gomphidius glutinosus (the slimy spike cap), the gills of which separate easily from the cap.

The mushroom grows in coniferous forests, appearing in October and November, occasionally December. Though mushrooms may be abundant, they are often hard to spot among the pine needles. They often appear in big groups of individuals and clusters.