How to identify The Veiled Lady

To correctly identify The Veiled Lady (Lactarius volemus), 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 of Lactarius volemus is large and fleshy, with a distinctive orange-red color. The cap is often sticky or slimy when wet. The cap margin is usually inrolled when young, but it becomes flat or slightly depressed with age.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   The gills of Lactarius volemus are close and crowded. They are white or cream-colored when young, but they become yellowish or brownish with age. The gills are often stained a reddish-brown color by the milky sap.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   The stem of Lactarius volemus is thick and solid. It is usually the same color as the cap, but it may be paler. The stem is often covered in a fine, white powder.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh of Lactarius volemus is white and firm. It is often stained a reddish-brown color by the milky sap.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   The fruiting body of Lactarius volemus is large and fleshy, with a distinctive orange-red cap and a white, milky sap. It is often found growing in clusters near the base of trees.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Lactarius volemus is found in a variety of habitats, including deciduous forests, mixed forests, and coniferous forests. It is often found growing near oak, birch, and pine trees.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Sticky or slimy when wet

Growth Form

Solitary or clustered

Spore Print

Cream-colored

Body color

Orange-red

Odor

Mild or slightly fruity

Flesh bruises

Reddish-brown

Height

2-6 inches

Cap Diameter

4-10 inches

Fruit body characteristics

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

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