Photos ©2005–
Close window
Click any photo for a larger image
Saffron Milkcap - Lactarius deliciosus
Family - Russulaceae
Also known as - Delicious Milkcap, Red Pine Mushroom
The Saffron Milkcap mushroom is a widespread species in the UK and Europe usually found from August to early October on acidic soils in pine forests in quite large numbers but will also occasionally be seen in oak woodlands in much smaller numbers. It is also found in Australia as an introduction, and parts of North America but now thought of as a close related species or complex. The generic name Lactarius means milk producing referring to the white liquid that is produced if the cap is damaged whilst "deliciosus" refers to its being considered delicious to eat.
Growing to between 6–20cm (2.4–8in) diameter with an inrolled margin and slightly convex, it is an overall reddish orange often with darker orange lines in the form of concentric circles and a slightly granular surface that is sticky when wet. Flat topped and inrolled when young on a relatively short hollow stem the crowded orange coloured gills become more decurrent with age and can have faint pale green patches. It grows in a mycorrhizal relationship with its host tree.
Similar to L. torminosus on Birch trees and L. deterrimus which has a smooth stem.
FBCP do not advise or recommend that Saffron Milkcap – Lactarius deliciosus is eaten or used as an herbal remedy. Apparently good when grilled they can be fibrous if cooked quickly.
Photos ©2005– |
Close window |
Click any photo for a larger image |
Site design ©1999– Brickfields Country Park - Privacy -