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Rufous milkcap

Lactarius rufus

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

Rufous milkcap(Lactarius rufus) is identifiable via both its shape and its dark red fruit bodies. They are rarely solitary and tend to sprout in scattered or clustered groups. Although this mushroom may have once been foraged for consumption, more recent research asserts the species to be poisonous. Consumption is therefore discouraged.

Cap Diameter:

3 - 11 cm

Odor:

Mild with no distinctive smell.

General Info About Rufous milkcap

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Attributes of Rufous milkcap

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

Stem Cross Sections

Hollow or cottony hollow

Flesh

White

Ring

Ringless

Spore Print Color

Pale cream with a slight salmon pink tinge

Odor

Mild with no distinctive smell.

Body Color

Brown

Red

Flesh Bruises

The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.

Flesh exude liquid when injured

Yes

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

How to Identify Rufous milkcap

Fruiting Body Cap Flesh

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Habitat of Rufous milkcap

The rufous milkcap is found in coniferous woods, particularly under pine, spruce, and larch, but it also appears near the edge of bogs. It grows on moss, duff, and needle litter beneath conifers.

Hunting Values of Rufous milkcap

Follow local culinary guidelines, typically dried and ground into powder for seasoning or used in pickles.

Uses of Rufous milkcap

Rufous milkcap is recognized as an edible mushroom with caution. While it can be consumed, it's important to ensure proper identification and preparation to avoid gastrointestinal discomfort. Its collection value stems from its culinary use when prepared correctly, although it's not among the most popular edible mushrooms. Rufous milkcap's seasonal availability might influence its practical applications. Always consult an expert before consuming rufous milkcap to mitigate health risks.

Scientific Classification of Rufous milkcap

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Russulales

Family

Russulaceae

Genus

Milk-caps

Toxicity and Edibility of Rufous milkcap

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Is Rufous milkcap Toxic?

Rufous milkcap is typically found in coniferous forests during the autumn season. It is identifiable by its reddish-brown cap and orange-brown gills. Consumption can lead to a burning sensation in the mouth and throat, followed by nausea and vomiting, underlining its potential harm to human health.

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.

Similar Species to Rufous milkcap

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Yellow-staining milkcap

Similar Species

Rufous milkcap

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

Rufous milkcap: Exudes white milk that doesn't change color.

Yellow-staining milkcap: Exudes white milk that turns yellow on exposure to air.

Fenugreek milkcap

Similar Species

Rufous milkcap

How to Differentiate Between Fenugreek milkcap and Rufous milkcap?

Rufous milkcap: The smell is mild.

Fenugreek milkcap: Distinctive smell reminiscent of fenugreek or curry.

Rufous milkcap: Features a rubbery, sometimes glutinous cap surface.

Fenugreek milkcap: Has a smooth or finely velvety cap surface.

Tips for Finding Rufous milkcap

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When is the Best Time to Find Rufous milkcap

Search for rufous milkcap in late summer to fall, when daytime temperatures are cool, especially after rain. Ideal conditions include moist soil and cooler nights.

What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Rufous milkcap

Hummus-rich, slightly acidic to neutral pH.

What are Some Tips for Finding Rufous milkcap

Search in areas with a lot of fallen pine needles and forest duff; rufous milkcap may be nestled within.
Look for rufous milkcap in mossy patches or areas with decaying wood in coniferous forests.
Explore close to pine or spruce trees where rufous milkcap often establish themselves; check near the base.
Investigate after periods of rainfall, as moist conditions are favorable for rufous milkcap emergence.
Be observant of slight mounds or disruptions in duff, indicating potential rufous milkcap presence underneath.

How to Clean and Preserve Rufous milkcap

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How to Clean Rufous milkcap

To clean rufous milkcap, gently brush them to remove any visible dirt. If needed, use a damp paper towel to softly wipe off stubborn bits, being careful not to damage the delicate flesh. Handle rufous milkcap with care to maintain their integrity.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Rufous milkcap

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying

Drying Duration

12 - 18 months

Store in airtight containers, cool, dark, low humidity to maintain quality and extend shelf-life.

Dehydrator drying: Consistent temperature and airflow reduce spoilage and dry efficiently.

Oven drying: Low heat setting allows slow removal of moisture without over-drying.

Air drying: Natural, cost-effective method, requires dry, warm environment with good ventilation.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of Rufous milkcap

Freezing Methods

Blanching Before Freezing

Freezing Duration

10 - 12 months

Blanching before freezing: Brief immersion in boiling water followed by rapid cooling to retain texture.

Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Rufous milkcap

Refrigerating Methods

Paper Bag Storage, Cloth Wrapping, Ventilated Container Storage

Temperature

1 - 3 ℃

Refrigerating Humidity

90 - 95 %

Refrigerating Duration

5 - 7 days

Paper Bag Storage: Store in paper bags to absorb excess moisture and allow for air circulation.

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

Ventilated Container Storage: Place in a perforated plastic container to balance humidity and limit moisture buildup.

Common Questions People Also Ask

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More Mushrooms That Are Similar to Rufous milkcap

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Lactarius rubidus

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