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Green-cracking russula

Russula virescens

A species of Russulas, Also known as Green brittlegill, Green russula

Green-cracking russula (Russula virescens) is easily recognized by its pale green cap and its preference for deciduous and mixed forests. An Old World species, its presence in North America has not yet been confirmed due to several cases of potentially mistaken identity with R. parvovirescens and R. crustosa, which are visually similar to Russula virescens.

Cap Diameter:

4 - 15 cm

Odor:

Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.

General Info About Green-cracking russula

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Attributes of Green-cracking russula

Cap Diameter

4 - 15 cm

Height

4 - 10 cm

Cap

Cap 5 - 15 cm; round to convex, becoming flat; green to yellowish green; dry, velvety; margin not lined to very slightly lined

Cap Shape

Convex, Flat, Depressed

Cap Surfaces

Velvety, Visible lines or stripes

Gills

Attached or nearly free; close or crowded; white to cream

Gill Attachment

Free to Attached

Stem

Stem 3 - 9 cm long, 2 - 4 cm thick; white, discoloring brownish with age; brittle, dry, smooth

Stem Shapes

Cylindrical

Stem Surfaces

Smooth

Flesh

Thick; brittle, fairly dense; not changing when sliced

Ring

Ringless

Spore Print Color

White

Odor

Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.

Body Color

Green

Yellow

White

Flesh Bruises

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

Growth Form

Solitary, Gregarious

Nutrient Gathering

Mycorrhizal

Substrate

On soil

You can find Green-cracking russula by these plants:

Oaks, Pines, European beech

Occurence Habitats

Deciduous Woodland, Coniferous Woodland, Mixed Woodland

Species Status

Widely distributed east of the Rocky Mountains

Endangered Species

How to Identify Green-cracking russula

Fruiting Body Cap Gills

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Habitat of Green-cracking russula

The green-cracking russula is a woodland mushroom, but it sometimes appears in urban settings such as parks. This fungus exists in a symbiotic relationship with a host tree’s roots, helping it absorb water and nutrients while the tree provides the fungus with sugars and amino acids. It prefers conifers, and its fruitbodies will be found on the ground beneath the tree.

Distribution Area of Green-cracking russula

North America,Europe,North Africa,Central America,northern and southeastern Asia

Uses of Green-cracking russula

Green-cracking russula is prized for its edibility and often incorporated into culinary dishes. It is popular among foragers and commands a collection value, especially when found in its seasonal peak. While green-cracking russula is commonly consumed, it's important to remind enthusiasts to properly identify and prepare it to avoid confusion with inedible species. Its utilization extends beyond the kitchen, potentially including traditional medicinal practices.

Scientific Classification of Green-cracking russula

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Russulales

Family

Russulaceae

Genus

Russulas

Toxicity and Edibility of Green-cracking russula

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Edibility of Green-cracking russula

Green-cracking russulas are a high-sought after choice edible, considered to be one of the best-tasting members of the entire Russula genus. They have a mild, sweet or nutty flavor and are prepared in a variety of ways, being sauteed, eaten raw, or dried (which is said to greatly enhance their flavor).

Similar Species to Green-cracking russula

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Tips for Finding Green-cracking russula

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When is the Best Time to Find Green-cracking russula

Search for green-cracking russula during late summer to early autumn. These mushrooms flourish after periods of rain when the soil is moist and temperatures are mild, but not frosty.

What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Green-cracking russula

Prefers well-drained, nutrient-rich soil.

What are Some Tips for Finding Green-cracking russula

Look for green-cracking russula in mixed woodland areas, with a special emphasis on spots beneath beech trees.
Seek out areas with rich, well-drained soil, as green-cracking russula tends to thrive in these conditions.
Inspect the ground in woodland areas for the distinctive cracked cap pattern typical of green-cracking russula.
Scan for the presence of hardwoods, an indicator of potential green-cracking russula growing spots.

How to Clean and Preserve Green-cracking russula

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How to Clean Green-cracking russula

To clean green-cracking russula, gently brush off any debris with a soft brush. For more persistent dirt, lightly rinse under running water without soaking. Pat dry immediately to prevent water absorption and maintain integrity.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Green-cracking russula

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying

Drying Duration

6 - 12 months

Store in a cool, dark, dry place with airtight containers to prevent moisture re-entry.

Dehydrator drying: Consistent temperature control aids moisture removal without cooking the mushroom.

Oven drying: Low heat setting and door slightly ajar ensure gentle water evaporation.

Air drying: Placed in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, maintaining circulation.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of Green-cracking russula

Freezing Methods

Blanching Before Freezing

Freezing Duration

10 - 12 months

Blanching before freezing: Blanch to inactivate enzymes preserving texture and color.

Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Green-cracking russula

Refrigerating Methods

Paper Bag Storage, Perforated Plastic Bag Storage, Ventilated Container Storage, Cloth Wrapping

Temperature

2 - 4 ℃

Refrigerating Humidity

90 - 95 %

Refrigerating Duration

5 - 7 days

Paper Bag Storage: Wrapping loosely in paper bags helps absorb moisture and keeps mushrooms dry, reducing spoilage.

Perforated Plastic Bag Storage: Using perforated plastic bags maintains humidity balance and prevents condensation.

Ventilated Container Storage: Storing in a slightly open container prevents moisture buildup while offering protection from bruising.

Cloth Wrapping: Encasing mushrooms in a damp, clean towel prevents dehydration without direct exposure to moisture.

Common Questions People Also Ask

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More Mushrooms That Are Similar to Green-cracking russula

Green brittlegill

Russula aeruginea