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Orange birch bolete

Leccinum versipelle

A species of Leccinum

You may not be particularly surprised to learn that the orange birch bolete (Leccinum versipelle) is an orange-capped bolete that commonly associates with birch trees. The species has a classic bolete form, boasting a large, bulbous cap, a thick, shaggy stalk, and a sponge-like pore surface. When cut and exposed to air, the flesh of this mushroom will turn blue.

Cap Diameter:

7 - 22 cm

Odor:

Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.

General Info About Orange birch bolete

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Attributes of Orange birch bolete

Cap Diameter

7 - 22 cm

Height

15 - 25 cm

Cap

Cap 20 cm across; broadly convex; bright red-brown, brick red

Cap Shape

Convex

Cap Surfaces

Fibrillose-scaly, Velvety

Stem

Stem 20 cm long, 2 - 4 cm thick; slender; white, black; firm; with small scales

Stem Shapes

Cylindrical

Stem Surfaces

Scaly

Flesh

White to pink; turns green-blue when cut

Ring

Ringless

Spore Print Color

Ochraceous brown

Odor

Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.

Body Color

Brown

Black

Red

White

Flesh Bruises

Discolor to blue

Growth Form

Gregarious

Nutrient Gathering

Mycorrhizal

Substrate

On soil

You can find Orange birch bolete by these plants:

Populus, Pines, Spruces, Oaks

Occurence Habitats

Mixed Woodland, Scrublands

Species Status

Fairly common

Endangered Species

How to Identify Orange birch bolete

Fruiting Body Cap Pores

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Habitat of Orange birch bolete

The orange birch bolete is usually found in heathlands and forest edges, exclusively in a symbiotic relationship with birch trees. Fruitbodies grow up from the ground near the roots of its host. It occasionally grows together with another fungus, the Brown Birch Bolete (Leccinum scabrum).

Uses of Orange birch bolete

Orange birch bolete is a sought-after edible mushroom, particularly esteemed in culinary circles for its nutty flavor. Its popularity peaks during its autumn fruiting season. Collectors value orange birch bolete for both personal consumption and market sale. While orange birch bolete is safe to eat, it's essential to cook it thoroughly due to potential toxins that are nullified by heat. Caution is advised to ensure proper identification before consumption, as there are look-alikes that may not be edible.

Scientific Classification of Orange birch bolete

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Boletes and allies

Family

Boletes

Genus

Leccinum

Toxicity and Edibility of Orange birch bolete

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Edibility of Orange birch bolete

Orange birch bolete is reported to be edible when cooked thoroughly, but it is toxic when eaten raw. Orange birch bolete does not have a distinctive smell or taste.

Similar Species to Orange birch bolete

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Lilac-brown bolete

Similar Species

Orange birch bolete

Confusing Aspects of Lilac-brown bolete and Orange birch bolete?

The cap of an aged Orange birch bolete may fade from orange-brown to light brown, which could possibly lead to confusion with Lilac-brown bolete.

How to Differentiate Between Lilac-brown bolete and Orange birch bolete?

Orange birch bolete: Pores become grey-brown upon maturing.

Lilac-brown bolete: Pores change to a darker, almost blackish color with age.

Tips for Finding Orange birch bolete

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When is the Best Time to Find Orange birch bolete

Seek orange birch bolete from late summer to early autumn, following periods of rainfall. Ideal temperatures range between 50°F (10°C) and 68°F (20°C). Morning foraging after a warm, wet spell is most productive.

What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Orange birch bolete

Acidic, well-drained, often sandy.

What are Some Tips for Finding Orange birch bolete

Search in clearings or edges of woodlands where birch trees are prevalent.
Look for areas with sandy, well-drained soil that tends to be acidic.
Examine the vicinity of birch trees, as orange birch bolete often emerges in proximity to these trees.
Scan the ground for distinctive, swollen-stemmed mushrooms, which are a hallmark of orange birch bolete.
Repeat searches in previously successful spots, as orange birch bolete may recur in the same areas.

How to Clean and Preserve Orange birch bolete

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How to Clean Orange birch bolete

To clean orange birch bolete, remove any debris by lightly brushing then use a damp cloth to wipe the surface. Do not soak as orange birch bolete absorb water easily, and handle gently to maintain their integrity.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Orange birch bolete

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying

Drying Duration

6 - 12 months

Store in a cool, dark, and dry place with airtight containers to prevent moisture absorption.

Dehydrator drying: Ensures even and rapid moisture removal, suitable for high water content.

Oven drying: Utilize low and consistent heat to effectively reduce moisture content.

Air drying: Facilitates slow dehydration process, ideal for areas with low humidity.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of Orange birch bolete

Freezing Methods

Blanching Before Freezing

Freezing Duration

10 - 12 months

Blanching before freezing: Inactivates enzymes, preserving texture and color.

Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Orange birch bolete

Refrigerating Methods

Paper Bag Storage, Plastic Wrap Storage, Perforated Plastic Bag Storage, Container with Absorbent Lining

Temperature

2 - 4 ℃

Refrigerating Humidity

90 - 95 %

Refrigerating Duration

5 - 7 days

Paper Bag Storage: Store in a paper bag to absorb excess moisture and allow for airflow, preventing spoilage.

Plastic Wrap Storage: Wrap mushrooms individually in plastic wrap to reduce dehydration and maintain firmness.

Perforated Plastic Bag Storage: Utilize a plastic bag with holes to balance moisture levels and minimize condensation.

Container with Absorbent Lining: Line a container with paper towels to soak up moisture and keep mushrooms dry.

Common Questions People Also Ask

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More Mushrooms That Are Similar to Orange birch bolete

Orange-capped bolete

Leccinum aurantiacum

Brown birch-bolete

Leccinum scabrum