Leccinum aurantiacum

Leccinum aurantiacum, which in North America goes by the common name Red-capped scaber stalk, is an edible bolete of the genus Leccinum. There is some uncertainty regarding the taxonomic classification of this species (see the MushroomExpert.com article linked below).

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Description

The cap is orange-red and measures up to 8 in (20 cm) across. Its flesh is white, bruising at first burgundy, then grayish or purple-black. The underside of the cap has very small whitish pores that bruise olive-brown. The stalk measures 4-7 in (10-18 cm) tall and to a ¾-1¼ in (2-3 cm) thick and can bruise blue-green. It is whitish, with short, rigid projections or scabers that turn to brown to black with age.

Similar species

The similarly edible L. insigne grow in aspen or aspen and birch stands, L. atrostipitatum in birch stands.

Distribution and habitat

The Red-capped scaber stalk can be found in late summer and autumn all over northern North America and Europe, including in Colorado and California, under conifers and deciduous trees.

Use

This is a favorite species for eating and can be prepared as other boletes. Its flesh turns very dark on cooking. Like most members of the Boletaceae, these mushrooms are popular with maggots, so check carefully.

References

• National Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Mushrooms, Knopf, 1981.