How to identify Chestnut Bolete

To correctly identify Chestnut Bolete (Gyroporus castaneus), 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 chestnut-brown, dry, and smooth, often becoming cracked in age. It is initially convex, later flattening out. The cap surface is not sticky or slimy.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   Instead of gills, it has a pore surface. The pores are small, round, and white to pale yellow, bruising slightly brownish when handled. The pore surface is free from the stem.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   The stem is typically the same color as the cap or slightly paler, dry, and smooth. A key characteristic is that the stem is hollow when mature, which distinguishes it from similar boletes.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is white and does not change color when cut or bruised. It has a mild, nutty taste and a faint, pleasant odor.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   The fruiting body of Gyroporus castaneus is typically small to medium-sized, with a cap diameter ranging from 4 to 10 cm. The overall appearance is neat and compact.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Gyroporus castaneus is found in deciduous woodlands, particularly under oak and chestnut trees. It is a mycorrhizal fungus, forming a symbiotic relationship with the roots of these trees. It typically fruits in summer and autumn.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Dry, smooth, sometimes cracked

Growth Form

Mycorrhizal

Spore Print

Pale yellow

Body color

Chestnut-brown

Odor

Mild, nutty

Flesh bruises

No bruising

Height

4-10 cm

Cap Diameter

4-10 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Pores, free from the stem
• Stem shape: Cylindrical
• Stem surface: Smooth
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: Hollow

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