Mycena maculata

A medium-sized Mycena found in clusters on stumps and decaying wood, ec.   Conical grey to brown cap with a paler margin, striate and developing reddish-brown spots with age; old specimens may be entirely reddish-brown. The grey gills have a white edge and also develop red-brown spots with age.  The stem has a whitish apex and brown below, also becoming red-brown with age.  Note that young specimens are unspotted, and may not be possible to identify unless examined microscopically.  

Several other Mycena have similar growth habitat (e.g. M inclinata), and unspooted specimens can be difficult to identify.   Mycena polygramma may also develop red-brown spots.

Photograph entire cluster on substrate; also a specimen from top down, in side view and underneath to show gills and full length of stipe.  Note habitat and substrate.  Unspotted specimens will need verification by an expert. 

Stumps and decaying wood, both hard-and softwood

Autumn.

Widespread but occasional in Britain.

Uncommon in Leicestershire and Rutland.