How to identify Apricot Milk Cap

To correctly identify Apricot Milk Cap (Lactarius subdulcis), 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 to flattened, often with a central depression. The color is typically apricot to tan, sometimes with a slightly darker center. The surface is smooth and can be slightly sticky when moist.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   The gills are adnate to slightly decurrent, closely spaced, and pale cream to apricot in color. When damaged, the gills exude a white milky latex that does not change color.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   The stem is slender, cylindrical, and typically the same color as the cap or slightly paler. It is smooth and hollow.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is thin and pale, with a mild odor.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   The fruiting body is typically small to medium-sized, with a cap ranging from 2 to 7 cm in diameter.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Lactarius subdulcis is found in deciduous woodlands, particularly under beech and oak trees. It is a mycorrhizal fungus, forming a symbiotic relationship with the roots of trees.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Smooth, slightly sticky when moist

Growth Form

Mycorrhizal

Spore Print

Cream to pale yellow

Body color

Apricot to tan

Odor

Mild

Flesh bruises

Does not typically bruise

Height

2-6 cm

Cap Diameter

2-7 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Adnate to slightly decurrent
• Stem shape: Cylindrical
• Stem surface: Smooth
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: Hollow

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