How to identify Bicolor Bolete

To correctly identify Bicolor Bolete (Boletus sensibilis), 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.

   2-10 cm in diameter, convex to flat, dry, smooth to slightly velvety, reddish when young, fading to yellowish-brown with age.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   N/A (has pores instead of gills)

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   4-12 cm long, 1-2.5 cm thick, equal to club-shaped, dry, smooth to slightly reticulate, typically red or pinkish-red at the base, fading to yellow towards the top.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   Yellowish, may stain blue slightly when bruised.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   Pores instead of gills. The pores are small and round, yellowish when young, becoming more brownish with age. The pore surface stains blue when bruised.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Deciduous and coniferous forests, often near oak trees.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Dry, smooth to slightly velvety

Growth Form

Solitary to scattered

Spore Print

Olive-brown

Body color

Reddish-brown to yellowish-brown

Odor

Mild and pleasant

Flesh bruises

May stain blue slightly

Height

4-12 cm

Cap Diameter

2-10 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: N/A (has pores instead of gills)
• Stem shape: Equal to club-shaped
• Stem surface: Smooth to slightly reticulate
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: Solid

Explore Bicolor Bolete