Russula cyanoxantha

Russula cyanoxantha, commonly known as the Charcoal burner, is a basidiomycete mushroom, distinguished from most other members of the Russula genus by the fact that its gills do not split, but are soft and flexible. It is one of the most common species of Russula in Europe.

Additional recommended knowledge

Guide to balance cleaning: 8 simple steps

What is the Correct Way to Check Repeatability in Balances?

Essential Laboratory Skills Guide

It is an edible mushroom. It was designated Mushroom of the Year in 1997 by the German Association of Mycology.

Description

The most salient characteristic is the weak gills, which feel greasy to the touch, are flexible and do not break. The cap is 4-10 cm wide, convex at first and later flattened, and greenish to bright brown (they vary considerably in color). The stipe is pure white, slightly convex underneath, up to 10 cm in height and 1.5-2.5 cm in diameter. The spores are pure white.

Distribution and habitat

Russula cyanoxantha grows in slightly acidic, but nutrient-rich soil. Like all Russulas, it is a mycorrhizal fungus. They appear from May to November, with the highest concentration in July to September.