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Short-stemmed russula

Russula brevipes

A species of Russulas, Also known as Short-stalked russula

The short-stemmed russula can be found near all types of trees, sometimes cropping up in groups of hundreds across the ground. As its common name would suggest, the stalk tends to be very short compared to its cap. Some mycologists are of the opinion that several distinct species are being lumped together under this name, due to variations found in physical features and habitats across populations.

Cap Diameter:

5 - 22 cm

Odor:

Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.

General Info About Short-stemmed russula

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Attributes of Short-stemmed russula

Cap Diameter

5 - 22 cm

Height

4 - 10 cm

Cap

6 - 20 cm; convex, vase-shaped; white, creamy, brownish; dry; margin somewhat inrolled or straightening

Cap Shape

Convex, Depressed

Cap Surfaces

Smooth, Slimy or slightly sticky

Gills

Adnexed, decurrent; crowded or close; white, creamy

Gill Attachment

Decurrent

Stem

3 - 4 cm long, 1.5 - 3 cm thick; equal; whitish; solid; dry, bald; turn brown to brownish when bruised

Stem Shapes

Cylindrical

Stem Surfaces

Smooth

Flesh

White; brownish when sliced

Ring

Ringless

Spore Print Color

White to creamy

Odor

Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.

Body Color

Brown

Bronze

White

Cream

Flesh Bruises

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

Growth Form

Solitary, Scattered, Gregarious

Nutrient Gathering

Mycorrhizal

Substrate

On soil

You can find Short-stemmed russula by these plants:

Pitch pine

Occurence Habitats

Deciduous Woodland, Coniferous Woodland, Mixed Woodland

Species Status

Fairly widely distributed in North America.

Endangered Species

How to Identify Short-stemmed russula

Fruiting Body Cap Gills

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Habitat of Short-stemmed russula

Short-stemmed russula can be found in all types of forests. They exist in a symbiotic relationship with a tree’s roots.

Hunting Values of Short-stemmed russula

Its edibility is controversial; some people have no issue eating it, others experience discomfort after consumption.

Uses of Short-stemmed russula

Short-stemmed russula is recognized as a mushroom with questionable edibility. While some foragers and mycophiles may use it in culinary applications after careful preparation, its consumption is risky. The popularity of short-stemmed russula for table use is low due to potential adverse effects. Collectors should approach short-stemmed russula with caution, especially during its peak availability in late summer to fall. It's advised to consult experts before considering short-stemmed russula for food to avoid health hazards.

Scientific Classification of Short-stemmed russula

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Russulales

Family

Russulaceae

Genus

Russulas

Similar Species to Short-stemmed russula

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Bearded milkcap

Similar Species

Short-stemmed russula

How to Differentiate Between Bearded milkcap and Short-stemmed russula?

Short-stemmed russula: No milky substance is released when gills are damaged.

Bearded milkcap: Produces a milky liquid when gills are injured.

Lactifluus subvellereus

Similar Species

Short-stemmed russula

How to Differentiate Between Lactifluus subvellereus and Short-stemmed russula?

Short-stemmed russula: Absence of any latex exudation.

Lactifluus subvellereus: Emits white latex.

Tips for Finding Short-stemmed russula

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When is the Best Time to Find Short-stemmed russula

Search for short-stemmed russula in late summer to fall when the weather is moist and after periods of rain. Ideal conditions are when daytime temperatures are moderate to cool, and nights are not yet freezing.

What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Short-stemmed russula

Prefers moist, rich, and well-drained soil.

What are Some Tips for Finding Short-stemmed russula

Seek out areas underneath the forest canopy where the ground is covered with natural leaf and needle debris.
Look for short-stemmed russula in spots where the soil is well-drained and rich in organic matter.
Examine the bases of a wide variety of trees, as short-stemmed russula could be mycorrhizal with both conifers and hardwoods.
Search for solitary to grouped short-stemmed russula, as they could appear in different formations on the forest floor.
Keep an eye out for their characteristic robust and white-colored appearance to distinguish them from other species.

How to Clean and Preserve Short-stemmed russula

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How to Clean Short-stemmed russula

To clean short-stemmed russula, remove dirt by gently brushing the upper cap after harvesting, then wash if needed. Examine the gill side which is usually clean, but cut the stem to check for any worm holes. Discard any dirty or bad parts to ensure cleanliness. Handle carefully to preserve the mushroom's structural integrity.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Short-stemmed russula

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying

Drying Duration

12 - 18 months

Store in a cool, dark place with low humidity and in an airtight container.

Dehydrator drying: Controlled airflow and temperature ensure even and thorough drying.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of Short-stemmed russula

Freezing Methods

Blanching Before Freezing

Freezing Duration

10 - 12 months