How to identify Orange Lactarius

To correctly identify Orange Lactarius (Lactarius aurantiacus), 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 convex and can be up to 10 cm in diameter. It is bright orange and has a smooth, slightly sticky surface.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   The gills are close together and are attached to the stem. They are white or cream-colored and may have a slight orange tinge.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   The stem is cylindrical and can be up to 8 cm tall. It is white or cream-colored and may have a slight orange tinge.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is white and firm. It has a mild, slightly bitter taste.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   The fruiting body is a mushroom with a cap and stem.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   The mushroom grows in deciduous forests, especially near oak and beech trees.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Smooth, slightly sticky

Growth Form

Solitary or in groups

Spore Print

Cream-colored

Body color

Orange

Odor

Mild, slightly fruity

Flesh bruises

Does not bruise

Height

3-8 cm

Cap Diameter

2-10 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Adnate
• Stem shape: Cylindrical
• Stem surface: Smooth
• Ring: None
• Stem cross-section: Solid

Explore Orange Lactarius