Leccinum albostipitatum

Habitat

This species is found on soil, growing in a symbiotic relationship with poplar trees. It typically grows either alone or in small clusters.

Photos

Appearance

Cap

Large, measuring 8 to 25 cm across; transitions from hemispherical to convex and eventually flat. The surface is smooth or finely downy, later developing small scales. The margin typically features small, triangular flaps of overhanging tissue when young.

Stem

Grows 5 to 27 cm long and is cylindrical or swollen at the base. It is covered in white, woolly scales that turn rust-red as the mushroom matures.

Pores and Tubes

Pores are very small and angular. Both the tubes and pores are creamy white to pale brown, especially where bruised. The tubes are attached to the stem.

Flesh

Firm and white, changing to reddish-grey and eventually blackish when bruised; the base of the stem often turns blue-green.

Spore print

Ochre-buff.

Edibility

This mushroom is easily confused with Leccinum aurantiacum, which is distinguished by its lack of white stem scales when young. The flesh changes color from white to red-grey or blackish when bruised and may turn blue-green at the base of the stem. It has a mild and pleasant taste and smell.

Nutrient Source

It forms a symbiotic relationship with trees, exchanging nutrients through their root systems.