Shingled hedgehog: habitat and season in Switzerland

Scientific name

Sarcodon imbricatus

Quick answer

The shingled hedgehog is a Norway spruce mycorrhizal fungus documented in the Swiss Jura, northern Pre-Alps and mountain forests of the Central Alps. It mainly appears from August to November on generally acidic soils. A brown scaly cap cannot confirm the species.

Typical habitat

Conifer woodland, especially beneath spruce, on generally acidic soils with a litter layer.

Indicative period

Late summer into autumn depending on elevation and moisture.

Identification and lookalikes

Sarcodon squamosus, more closely associated with pine, and other brown tooth fungi can look similar. Host tree, cap scales, teeth, stem, flesh and sometimes microscopic characters require comparison.

The map helps you search. Never identify.

Cepello does not identify mushrooms and never confirms that a specimen is edible. Have your entire collection checked by an official inspection service.

Uncertainty or mild symptoms: Tox Info Suisse 145. Acute symptoms: 144.Read the safety guide →

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Which tree is associated with the shingled hedgehog?

Swiss documentation identifies Sarcodon imbricatus as a Norway spruce mycorrhizal fungus. A spruce alone does not prove presence.

Is every scaly tooth fungus Sarcodon imbricatus?

No. Several species look similar, particularly Sarcodon squamosus in association with pine.

Rain, soil, trees and season

Sarcodon imbricatusShingled hedgehog: which soil pH and type?→Sarcodon imbricatusShingled hedgehog: which trees are associated?→Sarcodon imbricatusShingled hedgehog: what is the best season?→

Explore Switzerland

Plateau, Oberland and pre-Alpine valleysZurich→Geneva basin, Rhône and gentle hillsGeneva→Bernese Jura, Plateau, Emmental and OberlandBern→Central Plateau, hills and Pre-AlpsLucerne→Vaud Jura, Plateau and Pre-AlpsVaud→Rhône valley, dry slopes and AlpsValais→Southern Alps, valleys and Insubric hillsTicino→Alpine valleys, Engadine and southern valleysGraubünden→

Sources & method

SwissFungi, WSL · VAPKO · Tox Info Suisse · OFEV et WSL, Sarcodon imbricatus en Suisse

Checked on 25.08.2026. An online profile can never confirm identity or edibility. Keep species separate and have everything intended for consumption inspected.