How to identify Fleecy Milk-cap

To correctly identify Fleecy Milk-cap (Lactarius torminosus), 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, convex to flattened, and has a central depression. The cap margin is rolled inward and has a hairy or woolly texture. The color is typically pinkish-orange to salmon.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   The gills are crowded and adnate to slightly decurrent. They are typically pale pinkish-buff in color.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   The stem is typically 3–8 cm long and 1–2 cm thick. It is cylindrical or slightly tapered towards the base. The stem surface is dry and smooth, and the color is similar to the cap.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is firm and white, but may stain brownish when cut.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   The fruit body is a mushroom with a cap and a stem. The cap is typically 5–15 cm in diameter, convex to flattened, and has a central depression. The cap margin is rolled inward and has a hairy or woolly texture. The color is typically pinkish-orange to salmon.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Lactarius torminosus is typically found in forests, especially under birch trees. It is a mycorrhizal fungus, forming a symbiotic relationship with the roots of trees.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Hairy or woolly texture, especially at the margin.

Growth Form

Solitary to scattered.

Spore Print

Cream to pale yellow.

Body color

Pinkish-orange to salmon.

Odor

Distinctive, slightly fruity or pungent.

Flesh bruises

May stain brownish when cut.

Height

3-8 cm

Cap Diameter

5-15 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Adnate to slightly decurrent.
• Stem shape: Cylindrical or slightly tapered towards the base.
• Stem surface: Dry and smooth.
• Ring: Absent.
• Stem cross-section: Solid.

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