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Liver milkcap

Lactarius hepaticus

A species of Milk-caps

Liver milkcap is characterized by a distinctive reddish-brown cap that may appear slightly zoned with concentric circles. The gills underneath the cap are often cream colored and can exude a milky substance when damaged. This species typically grows in soil rich in conifers and is known for forming symbiotic relationships with these trees, a key role in forest ecosystems.

Cap Diameter:

3 - 9 cm

Odor:

Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.

General Info About Liver milkcap

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Attributes of Liver milkcap

Cap Diameter

3 - 9 cm

Height

4 - 10 cm

Cap

Cap 3 - 9 cm across; convex to flat; reddish brown, brown; surface smooth

Cap Shape

Convex, Flat, Depressed, Central Bump

Cap Surfaces

Smooth

Gills

Attached, decurrent; close; whitish to pinkish or very pale tan; unchanging when bruised

Gill Attachment

Attached

Stem

Stem 4 - 9 cm long, 1 cm thick; equal; reddish brown, brown; surface smooth

Stem Shapes

Cylindrical

Stem Surfaces

Smooth

Stem Cross Sections

Hollow or cottony hollow

Flesh

Thin; pale; unchanging when sliced

Ring

Ringless

Spore Print Color

Cream

Odor

Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.

Body Color

Brown

Red

Flesh Bruises

Discolor to yellowish

Flesh exude liquid when injured

Yes

Growth Form

Scattered, Gregarious

Nutrient Gathering

Mycorrhizal

Substrate

On soil

You can find Liver milkcap by these plants:

Spruces, Oaks, Pines, Scots pine

Occurence Habitats

Coniferous Woodland

Species Status

Widely distributed

Endangered Species

How to Identify Liver milkcap

Fruiting Body Cap Gills

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Habitat of Liver milkcap

Liver milkcap is often found in coniferous woods, preferring areas with pine trees. They may grow scattered or in small groups in these environments.

Hunting Values of Liver milkcap

Edibility is controversial. While some guides consider it edible, others believe this peppery mushroom is inedible.

Uses of Liver milkcap

Liver milkcap is recognized as a mushroom with questionable edibility. Its practical uses are limited due to potential risks when consumed. While some may consider it for culinary experimentation, caution is advised because of its uncertain effects on health. It's not popular among foragers and lacks significant commercial value. Collectors should be aware of the safety concerns associated with liver milkcap and prioritize well-established edible species instead.

Scientific Classification of Liver milkcap

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Russulales

Family

Russulaceae

Genus

Milk-caps

Toxicity and Edibility of Liver milkcap

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Is Liver milkcap Toxic?

The liver milkcap is typically found in woodland habitats under certain conditions and seasons. Its toxins can cause a variety of adverse health effects on humans, primarily gastrointestinal distress, which may progress to serious conditions including vision and movement problems, and potential organ damage. Its distinct features help distinguish it from non-toxic species, though, caution is advised to not consume it under any circumstances.

Toxins type

Terpenoid

Type of poisoning

Gastrointestinal

Toxic Severity

Moderate toxicity

Incubation Period

0.5-4 hours

Poisoning Symptoms

Common symptoms include gastrointestinal distress, characterized by nausea, vomiting, cramps, and diarrhea.

In more severe cases, poisoning can lead to issues beyond the digestive system, such as vision problems, movement disorders like tremors or ataxia, and potential damage to vital organs like the liver and kidneys.

Similar Species to Liver milkcap

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Tips for Finding Liver milkcap

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When is the Best Time to Find Liver milkcap

To find liver milkcap, search during late summer to early fall. Optimal conditions include cool, moist weather following rainfall. Temperatures should ideally range from 50°F to 65°F (10°C to 18°C).

What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Liver milkcap

Acidic, well-drained, sandy or loamy soils.

What are Some Tips for Finding Liver milkcap

Explore coniferous forests, looking specifically around the base of pine trees where liver milkcap is likely to be found.
Search for liver milkcap in areas with well-drained soil; avoid overly wet or marshy locations.
Inspect the ground for small groups rather than individual specimens, as liver milkcap has a tendency to grow in scattered clusters.
Be gentle when moving debris or foliage in potential liver milkcap habitats to avoid damaging the mushrooms.

How to Clean and Preserve Liver milkcap

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How to Clean Liver milkcap

To clean liver milkcap, gently brush off any debris using a soft brush. If needed, briefly rinse under running water, but do not soak as this can damage their delicate structure.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Liver milkcap

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying

Drying Duration

6 - 12 months

Store in a cool, dark place with low humidity and airtight containers for optimal preservation.

Dehydrator drying: Consistent temperature control, efficient moisture removal, ideal for high water content.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of Liver milkcap

Freezing Methods

Blanching Before Freezing

Freezing Duration

10 - 12 months

Blanching before freezing: Preserves texture and color, reduces enzyme action that causes spoilage.

Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Liver milkcap

Refrigerating Methods

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

Temperature

2 - 4 ℃

Refrigerating Humidity

85 - 95 %

Refrigerating Duration

5 - 7 days

Paper Bag Storage: Store in paper bags to allow air circulation, helping reduce moisture build-up that can accelerate spoilage.

Cloth Wrapping: Encase in a slightly damp cloth to maintain humidity while allowing for air exchange.

Perforated Plastic Bag Storage: Use perforated plastic bags to balance humidity control and air flow around the mushrooms.

Original Packaging Storage: Keep in their original container lined with paper towels, if bought commercially, to absorb excess moisture.

Common Questions People Also Ask

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