How to identify Fleecy Milk-cap

To correctly identify Fleecy Milk-cap (Lactarius vellereus), 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 7-25 cm in diameter, convex to flattened, sometimes with a shallow depression. The surface is dry and velvety, white to cream-colored, and may become yellowish with age. The margin is inrolled when young and becomes wavy or lobed.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   The gills are closely spaced, adnate to slightly decurrent, and white to cream-colored. They may stain brownish when bruised.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   The stem is stout, short, and cylindrical, measuring 3-8 cm long and 2-4 cm thick. It is white to cream-colored and has a dry surface.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is thick, firm, and white.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   The fruiting body is large and fleshy.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Found in deciduous and coniferous woods, forming mycorrhizal associations with trees.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Dry, velvety

Growth Form

Mycorrhizal

Spore Print

White to cream

Body color

White to cream

Odor

Mild

Flesh bruises

May stain brownish

Height

3-8 cm

Cap Diameter

7-25 cm

Fruit body characteristics

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

Explore Fleecy Milk-cap