How to identify Bleeding Milk Cap

To correctly identify Bleeding Milk Cap (Lactarius rubrilacteus), 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 5-15 cm in diameter, depressed or funnel-shaped, and has a reddish-brown to orange-brown color. It may have concentric zones of color and a slightly sticky surface when moist.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   The gills are closely spaced, slightly decurrent (running down the stem), and have a pale orange to cream color. They may stain reddish-brown where damaged.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   The stem is typically 4-8 cm long and 1-2 cm thick, cylindrical, and smooth. It is usually the same color as the cap or slightly paler. The stem may also exude latex when cut.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is firm and whitish to pale orange. When cut, it exudes a reddish-orange latex.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   Medium to large size mushroom with a depressed cap and reddish-orange latex.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Found in coniferous forests, particularly under pine and fir trees. It is an ectomycorrhizal fungus.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Slightly sticky when moist

Growth Form

Solitary to scattered

Spore Print

Cream to pale yellow

Body color

Reddish-brown to orange-brown

Odor

Mild and nondescript

Flesh bruises

Exudes reddish-orange latex

Height

4-8 cm

Cap Diameter

5-15 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Slightly decurrent
• Stem shape: Cylindrical
• Stem surface: Smooth
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: Solid

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