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False saffron milkcap

Lactarius deterrimus

A species of Milk-caps, Also known as Orange-latex milky

A less-tasty cousin of the Saffron milkcap (Lactarius deliciosus), the false saffron milkcap is closely associated with spruce. When it appears in forests, it usually forms a large carpet. Species within the Lactarius genus are hard to differentiate from other, more poisonous mushrooms, and should not be foraged for food by the inexperienced.

Cap Diameter:

5 - 12 cm

Odor:

Mildly fruity but not distinctive.

General Info About False saffron milkcap

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Attributes of False saffron milkcap

Cap Diameter

5 - 12 cm

Height

5 - 10 cm

Cap

Cap 6 - 10 cm; convex, flat; orange, green stains; smooth

Cap Shape

Convex, Flat, Depressed

Cap Surfaces

Smooth, Slimy or slightly sticky, Visible lines or stripes

Gills

Broadly adnexed, decurrent; close, short-gills frequent; orange

Gill Attachment

Attached

Stem

Stem 3 - 5 cm long, up to 1.5 cm thick; slightly tapered to the base; orange

Stem Shapes

Cylindrical

Stem Surfaces

Smooth

Stem Cross Sections

Hollow or cottony hollow

Flesh

Dirty orange; staining slowly reddish orange

Ring

With Ring Zone

Spore Print Color

Cream to pale pinkish buff

Odor

Mildly fruity but not distinctive.

Body Color

Green

White

Orange

Flesh Bruises

Discolor to green

Flesh exude liquid when injured

Yes

Growth Form

Solitary, Scattered, Gregarious

Nutrient Gathering

Mycorrhizal

Substrate

On soil

You can find False saffron milkcap by these plants:

Arborvitae, Eastern white pine, Spruces, Norway spruce, Pines

Occurence Habitats

Coniferous Woodland

Species Status

Widely distributed

Endangered Species

How to Identify False saffron milkcap

Fruiting Body Cap Gills

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Habitat of False saffron milkcap

The false saffron milkcap is exclusively associated with spruce and pine, therefore it can be found in coniferous forests, but also in pine plantations. This fungus exists in a symbiotic relationship with the tree’s roots, helping it absorb water and nutrients while the tree provides the fungus with sugars and amino acids.

Distribution Area of False saffron milkcap

Europe

Uses of False saffron milkcap

False saffron milkcap is a valued edible mushroom, popular among foragers during its fruiting season. While not a top gourmet choice, it's used in various culinary dishes after proper cooking. Its collection is common due to its availability in certain regions. As with many wild mushrooms, caution is advised to ensure correct identification before consumption to avoid potential health risks.

Scientific Classification of False saffron milkcap

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Russulales

Family

Russulaceae

Genus

Milk-caps

Toxicity and Edibility of False saffron milkcap

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Edibility of False saffron milkcap

The false saffron milkcap does not taste quite as good as the true Saffron Milkcap, but is reportedly easier to find. Make sure to distinguish it from the poisonous Wooly Milkcap, which does not have the orange-colored milk of this edible species. Check for maggots before picking. When eaten in large amounts, the false saffron milkcap may cause a harmless reddening of the urine. Best stir-fried or sauteed.

Similar Species to False saffron milkcap

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Fenugreek milkcap

Similar Species

False saffron milkcap

How to Differentiate Between Fenugreek milkcap and False saffron milkcap?

False saffron milkcap: The cap is typically orange or red-orange.

Fenugreek milkcap: The cap is usually grey or pale brown.

False saffron milkcap: Has a mild or fruity smell.

Fenugreek milkcap: Often has a distinct smell of fenugreek or burnt sugar, especially when dry.

Woolly milkcap

Similar Species

False saffron milkcap

How to Differentiate Between Woolly milkcap and False saffron milkcap?

False saffron milkcap: The margin is smooth or slightly grooved.

Woolly milkcap: The margin is distinctly woolly or hairy.

Tips for Finding False saffron milkcap

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When is the Best Time to Find False saffron milkcap

Search for false saffron milkcap in late summer to early fall when the weather starts to cool. Ideal conditions occur after periods of rain, which helps false saffron milkcap flourish.

What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for False saffron milkcap

Acidic, nutrient-rich, well-drained soil.

What are Some Tips for Finding False saffron milkcap

Search around the base of spruce and pine trees, as false saffron milkcap tends to grow nearby.
Look for scattered groups or individuals on the ground in coniferous forests.
Check in well-drained areas where the soil is rich in nutrients and has an acidic composition.
Investigate gently sloping terrain within conifer woodlands to find false saffron milkcap.
Examine areas where the forest floor is covered in needles, as this indicates suitable habitat for false saffron milkcap.

How to Clean and Preserve False saffron milkcap

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How to Clean False saffron milkcap

To clean false saffron milkcap, opt for a brief rinse rather than soaking. Submerge in water, briskly wash to dislodge dirt, then immediately remove and gently pat dry with paper towels to maintain integrity.

Tips on Dry Preservation of False saffron milkcap

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying

Drying Duration

6 - 12 months

Store in a dark, cool place with low humidity and good ventilation to prevent moisture absorption.

Dehydrator drying: Efficient at removing moisture while maintaining the integrity of the mushroom.

Oven drying: Set at a low temperature to ensure gradual evaporation of water content.

Air drying: Requires a dry, warm environment with good circulation, out of direct sunlight.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of False saffron milkcap

Freezing Methods

Blanching Before Freezing

Freezing Duration

10 - 12 months

Blanching before freezing: Blanch to inactivate enzymes, then cool and freeze rapidly.

Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of False saffron milkcap

Refrigerating Methods

Paper Bag Storage, Perforated Plastic Bag Storage, Cloth Wrapping, Cardboard Box Storage, Original Packaging Storage

Temperature

1 - 4 ℃

Refrigerating Humidity

90 - 95 %

Refrigerating Duration

3 - 7 days

Paper Bag Storage: Store in paper bags to allow breathability, reducing moisture accumulation and spoilage.

Perforated Plastic Bag Storage: Use bags with holes to balance humidity and prevent condensation.

Cloth Wrapping: Wrap in a damp cloth to maintain humidity without direct moisture contact.

Cardboard Box Storage: Place in a shallow cardboard box for airflow, which mimics natural environment conditions.

Original Packaging Storage: If sold in a container with vent holes, keep it for maintaining the necessary airflow.

Common Questions People Also Ask

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More Mushrooms That Are Similar to False saffron milkcap

Saffron milk cap

Lactarius deliciosus