Gigrofor russula (Hygrophorus russula)
Systematics:- Department: Basidiomycota (Basidiomycetes)
- Subdivision: Agaricomycotina (Agaricomycetes)
- Class: Agaricomycetes (Agaricomycetes)
- Subclass: Agaricomycetidae (Agaricomycetes)
- Order: Agaricales (Agaric or Lamellar)
- Family: Hygrophoraceae (Hygrophoric)
- Genus: Hygrophorus (Gigrofor)
- Species: Hygrophorus russula (Gigrofor russula)
Synonyms:
- Gigrofor russule
- Cherry
External description
A fleshy, strong cap, first convex, then prostrate, there are flattenings in the center or tubercles. It has a wavy surface, with edges bent inward, sometimes covered with radial deep cracks. Scaly skin. Strong, very thick, cylindrical leg, sometimes there is a thickening at the bottom. Not wide rare plates with many intermediate plates. Dense white flesh, practically tasteless and odorless. Smooth, white spores, in the form of short ellipses, 6-8 x 4-6 microns in size. The color of the cap changes from dark pink to purple and is darker in the center. White leg, covered with frequent red spots at the top. At first, the plates are white, gradually acquiring a purple hue. When exposed to air, the white flesh turns red.
Edibility
Edible
Habitat
Found in deciduous forests, especially under oak trees, sometimes in small groups. In mountainous and hilly areas.
Season
Summer autumn.
Similar species
Looks like an edible blushing hygrophor with smaller, slimy caps with a bitter taste and purple scales.