Scarlet/Ruby Elf-cup - Sarcoscypha

There are two very similar species recorded in VC55 - Sarcoscypha austriaca (Scarlet Elf-cup) and Sarcoscypha coccinea (Ruby Elf-cup).  Microscopic examination is needed to tell them apart.  

Cup shaped, fertile inner surface smooth, bright red.  Outer surface whitish to pinkish to ochraceous, attached to the substrate by a thick stem.  

If you haven't examined a specimen microscopically, submit a record as this genus.  Include a field photo.

This species is found growing on fallen pieces of dead hardwood among mosses and leaf litter in damp habitats.

Late winter to early spring.

Recorded frequently