Oak woodwax or Gold flecked woodwax

Cap 4-10 cm, hemispherical at first, then flattened-convex with a broad umbo. Orange-reddish, brick orange, darker at the center. The surface is dry or slightly slimy in wet weather, smooth. The margin is thin and often split in mature specimens.

Cap 2-8 cm, hemispherical at first, then convex-flattened with a broad umbo. White or creamy white, with a distinctly yellow margin — a characteristic feature. The surface is covered in fine whitish or yellowish down (hence «hairy»). Slightly slimy in wet weather.

Gilled hymenophore. The gills are widely spaced, thick, and decurrent (a typical feature of the genus Hygrophorus). White or cream at first, taking on a yellowish or pinkish tint with age. Spore print white.

Gilled hymenophore. The gills are widely spaced, thick, and decurrent (a typical feature of the genus). White at first, turning yellowish with age, especially the edges — golden yellow. Spore print white.

Stem 4-8 cm tall, 1-2 cm thick, cylindrical, slightly tapering toward the base. White or cream, with a pinkish tint at the top. The surface is dry, with a fine white mealy coating at the top. No ring.

Stem 5-8 cm tall, 0.8-1.5 cm thick, cylindrical. White, with a characteristic band of yellow granular flecks at the top, as if dusted with semolina (this is what gave it the name «golden»). The surface is dry, without slime. No ring.

The flesh is white, firm, thick at the center of the cap. Does not change color when cut. Springy texture, not watery — good for cooking.

The flesh is white, firm, with a distinctive aroma. Does not change color when cut. Springy texture — holds up well to frying and stewing.

A distinct mealy smell — a diagnostic feature. Taste mild, pleasantly mushroomy, with a barely noticeable fresh, mealy note.

A distinct, pleasant mushroomy smell. Some sources describe a hint of resin or wood. Taste mild, pleasantly mushroomy.