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Paxillus involutus, commonly known as the Velvet Rollrim, is a poisonous mushroom that can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and, in some cases, a potentially fatal autoimmune reaction. It is characterized by its brownish cap with a velvety texture and inrolled margin, as well as its yellowish-brown gills that bruise darker when damaged. This mushroom is found in various habitats, including forests and disturbed areas, often near birch and other trees.
How to Identify
- Cap
- The cap of the Velvet Rollrim is typically 5-12 cm in diameter, convex to flattened, and has a brownish color. The surface is velvety, and the margin is inrolled, especially in young specimens.
- Gills
- The gills are yellowish-brown, decurrent (running down the stem), and close together. They bruise darker when damaged, which is a key identifying feature.
- Stem
- The stem is short, stout, and typically the same color as the cap or slightly lighter. It is usually 2-8 cm long and 1-2 cm thick.
- Flesh
- The flesh of Paxillus involutus is yellowish-brown and can stain darker when cut or bruised.
- Fruiting body
- The fruiting body of Paxillus involutus typically has a cap and a stem. The cap is usually brownish and has a velvety texture, with an inrolled margin when young.
- Habitat
- Paxillus involutus is commonly found in forests, parks, and disturbed areas, often near birch and other trees. It can grow in both coniferous and deciduous woodlands.
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: Velvety
- Growth Form: Mycorrhizal
- Spore Print: Brown
- Body color: Brown
- Odor: Earthy
- Flesh bruises: Yes, darkens when bruised
- Height: 2-8 cm
- Cap Diameter: 5-12 cm
- Nutrient gathering: Mycorrhizal
Toxic
Severe ToxicityPaxillus involutus is a poisonous mushroom that can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and, in some cases, a potentially fatal autoimmune reaction. Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In rare cases, it can lead to kidney failure and death.
Quick Check
- Odor: Earthy, fungal
- Fruiting: Solitary or in groups
- Substrate: Soil, often near birch trees
Where to Find
Europe
Paxillus involutus is widespread throughout Europe, including Russia. It can be found in various habitats, such as forests, parks, and disturbed areas.
North America
This mushroom has also been introduced to North America and can be found in similar habitats as in Europe.
Finding Tips
Look near birch trees
Paxillus involutus is often found in association with birch trees, so check areas where birch trees are present.
Check disturbed areas
This mushroom can also grow in disturbed areas, such as roadsides and construction sites.
Similar Species
Edible Bolete
Edible mushroom
Also known as: Boletus edulis
False Chanterelle
Inedible mushroom
Also known as: Hygrophoropsis aurantiaca
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Basidiomycota
- Class
- Agaricomycetes
- Order
- Boletales
- Family
- Paxillaceae
- Genus
- Paxillus
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