Rufous milkcap

Lactarius rufus

A species of Milk-caps. Also known as Red milk cap.

The Rufous milkcap (Lactarius rufus) can be recognized by its distinct form and deep red fruiting bodies. It seldom grows alone, typically appearing in scattered or grouped formations. While it may have historically been gathered for food, contemporary studies indicate this species is toxic, thus consumption is not advised.

In This Article
Attributes Classification Toxicity Similar Mushrooms

Attributes of Rufous milkcap

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Cap Diameter
3 - 11 cm
Height
3 - 10 cm
Cap
Up to 10 cm in diameter; convex, flat; dark brick, bay or red-brown; dry, matt
Cap Shape
Convex, Depressed, Central Bump
Cap Surfaces
Slimy or slightly sticky, Fibrillose-scaly
Gills
Slightly decurrent; cream, becoming coloured as the cap later, only paler
Gill Attachment
Decurrent
Stem
Becomes hollow with age; concolorous but paler
Stem Shapes
Cylindrical
Stem Surfaces
Smooth
Flesh
White
Ring
Ringless
Spore Print Color
Pale cream with a slight salmon pink tinge
Odor
Mild with no distinctive smell.
Body Color
BrownRed
Flesh Bruises
The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.
Growth Form
Scattered, Gregarious
Nutrient Gathering
Mycorrhizal
Substrate
Leaf or Needle Litter, On soil
You can find Rufous milkcap by these plants
Pines, Spruces, Firs, Oaks
Occurence Habitats
Coniferous Woodland
Species Status
Frequent in the northern temperate zones in Europe and North America
Endangered Species
No

Scientific Classification of Rufous milkcap

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Phylum
Club fungi
Class
Mushroom-forming fungi
Order
Russulales
Family
Russulaceae
Genus
Milk-caps
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Toxicity and Edibility of Rufous milkcap

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Is Rufous milkcap Toxic?

The Rufous milkcap, often sighted in autumnal coniferous woodlands, is distinguishable by its russet-colored cap and gills that possess an orange-brown hue. Ingesting this mushroom can result in an intense burning sensation in the oral cavity and pharynx, succeeded by feelings of sickness and the expulsion of stomach contents, highlighting the potential danger it poses to human well-being.

Toxins type
Terpenoid
Type of poisoning
Gastrointestinal
Toxic Severity
Moderate toxicity
Incubation Period
0.5-4 hours
Poisoning Symptoms
Start with a burning sensation in the mouth and throat, Followed by nausea and vomiting.

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