How to identify Bicolor Bolete

To correctly identify Bicolor Bolete (Baorangia bicolor), check each of these features in order. Misidentification is the most common cause of mushroom poisoning, so cross-reference multiple sources.

Step-by-step identification

1. 1

   Cap

   Shape, color, surface texture, and diameter.

   The cap is typically convex, dry, and ranges in color from pinkish-red to reddish-brown. It can fade to tan or yellowish with age. The cap surface is usually smooth but can become cracked in age.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   Instead of gills, it has pores. The pores are small and round, initially yellow, becoming more yellowish-green with age. They bruise blue when handled.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   The stem is usually club-shaped, yellow, and often has a reddish or pinkish hue, especially towards the base. It may have a fine network of ridges (reticulation) near the top.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is yellow, sometimes staining blue when cut or bruised, especially in the cap. This bluing reaction can be variable.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   The fruiting body of Baorangia bicolor is a mushroom with a cap and a stem. It is a bolete, meaning it has pores instead of gills under the cap.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   It is found in hardwood forests, particularly with oak, during the summer and fall months. It forms mycorrhizal relationships with trees.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Dry, smooth, may crack with age

Growth Form

Mycorrhizal

Spore Print

Olive-brown

Body color

Reddish-pink cap, yellow stem

Odor

Mild

Flesh bruises

Sometimes blue

Height

5-15 cm

Cap Diameter

5-15 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Pores instead of gills
• Stem shape: Club-shaped
• Stem surface: Smooth or slightly reticulated
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: Solid

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