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Bleeding milkcap

Lactarius rubrilacteus

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

The bleeding milkcap (Lactarius rubrilacteus) is distinguished from other, more commonly found milkcaps by its burnt amber color and its propensity to grow beneath Douglas fir. When the cap is damaged, bruising appears green. If severely damaged, it will bleed a milky substance that is amber in color.

Cap Diameter:

4 - 13 cm

Odor:

Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.

General Info About Bleeding milkcap

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Attributes of Bleeding milkcap

Cap Diameter

4 - 13 cm

Height

3 - 8 cm

Cap

Cap 4 - 9 cm across; convex to broadly convex; brownish orange; margin uplifted, or shallowly vase-shaped

Cap Shape

Convex, Depressed

Cap Surfaces

Slimy or slightly sticky

Gills

Decurrent; close; pale dirty orangish; turns dirty green when stained and bruised

Gill Attachment

Attached

Stem

Stem 2 - 4 cm long, 1 - 2 cm thick; tapered to the base; dull orangish

Stem Shapes

Tapering

Stem Surfaces

Smooth

Flesh

Fairly firm; whitish; turns pink to purplish when sliced

Ring

Ringless

Spore Print Color

Pale yellow

Odor

Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.

Body Color

Brown

Green

White

Orange

Flesh Bruises

Discolor to pink or red

Growth Form

Solitary, Scattered

Nutrient Gathering

Mycorrhizal

Substrate

On soil

You can find Bleeding milkcap by these plants:

Common douglas-fir

Occurence Habitats

Coniferous Woodland

Species Status

Least Concern

Endangered Species

How to Identify Bleeding milkcap

Fruiting Body Cap Flesh

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Habitat of Bleeding milkcap

The distribution and habitat of the bleeding milkcap is restricted to parts of western North America. The mushroom grows amid the duff on the ground beneath a host tree, with which the fungus is symbiotically exchanging vital nutrients. It most often forms these relationships with pine and Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii).

Uses of Bleeding milkcap

Bleeding milkcap is an edible mushroom species appreciated for its culinary applications. Its collection value lies in its use as a food source, particularly among wild mushroom foragers. While not the most popular, it is sought after by those who are knowledgeable about its identification and seasonal availability. As with all wild mushrooms, caution is advised when consuming bleeding milkcap, ensuring proper identification to avoid confusion with toxic look-alikes. It's important to note that consumption should only follow expert guidance.

Scientific Classification of Bleeding milkcap

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Russulales

Family

Russulaceae

Genus

Milk-caps

Toxicity and Edibility of Bleeding milkcap

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Edibility of Bleeding milkcap

Bleeding milkcap is reported to be edible, with a grainy texture, and can vary in flavor. There have been reports of upset stomachs after eating some members of the milk cap family, in some people.

Similar Species to Bleeding milkcap

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Yellow-staining milkcap

Similar Species

Bleeding milkcap

How to Differentiate Between Yellow-staining milkcap and Bleeding milkcap?

Bleeding milkcap: Exudes a red latex upon injury.

Yellow-staining milkcap: Secretes white latex that slowly turns yellow.

Tips for Finding Bleeding milkcap

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When is the Best Time to Find Bleeding milkcap

Search for bleeding milkcap in late summer to fall when the weather is wet but not freezing. Ideal conditions are after rainfall, with cool nights and mild, damp days.

What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Bleeding milkcap

Prefers moist, well-drained soils.

What are Some Tips for Finding Bleeding milkcap

Seek out coniferous forests, focusing on areas around Douglas-firs and pines.
Look for bleeding milkcap in locations where the ground is moist and the soil is well-drained.
Search in solitary or group formations, as bleeding milkcap does not exclusively grow in one pattern.
Inspect the forest floor thoroughly, as bleeding milkcap could be partially hidden by forest debris.
Be consistent, patiently examining likely areas as bleeding milkcap may not be immediately obvious.

How to Clean and Preserve Bleeding milkcap

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How to Clean Bleeding milkcap

Gently brush off any debris from bleeding milkcap, taking care not to damage the smooth edges. If necessary, briefly rinse under cool running water to remove any remaining dirt, but do not soak. Allow to air dry on a clean cloth.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Bleeding milkcap

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying

Drying Duration

6 - 12 months

Cool, dark, dry place with airtight containers; silica gel packets can help maintain dryness.

Dehydrator drying: Efficient moisture removal, preserves quality, ideal for high-water content, typically 95-135°F (35-57°C).

Oven drying: Consistent heat, option if dehydrator unavailable, use low temperature with door slightly open for ventilation.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of Bleeding milkcap

Freezing Methods

Blanching Before Freezing

Freezing Duration

10 - 12 months

Blanching before freezing: Briefly exposes to hot water to inhibit enzyme activity.

Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Bleeding milkcap

Refrigerating Methods

Paper Bag Storage, Cloth Wrapping, Perforated Plastic Bag Storage, Container with Absorbent Lining, Original Packaging Storage

Temperature

1 - 4 ℃

Refrigerating Humidity

90 - 95 %

Refrigerating Duration

7 - 10 days

Paper Bag Storage: Place mushrooms in paper bags to absorb excess moisture, maintaining flavor and texture.

Cloth Wrapping: mushrooms enveloped in a damp cloth prevent dehydration while allowing breathability.

Perforated Plastic Bag Storage: Small punctures in bags allow airflow, reducing condensation and spoilage risks.

Container with Absorbent Lining: Use a container with a damp paper towel layer beneath to keep mushrooms separated and moist.

Original Packaging Storage: Reuse the mushroom's original packaging if ventilated, offering an ideal micro-environment.

Common Questions People Also Ask

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