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Russula aeruginea, commonly known as the green russula, is an edible mushroom species belonging to the Russulaceae family. It is characterized by its distinctive green cap and white to pale yellow stem. This mushroom is typically found in deciduous and coniferous forests.
How to Identify
- Cap
- The cap is initially convex, later flattening out and sometimes becoming slightly depressed in the center. Its color ranges from pale green to grayish-green, often with darker spots or patches. The cap surface is smooth and slightly sticky when moist.
- Gills
- The gills are adnexed to slightly decurrent, closely spaced, and white to cream-colored. They are brittle and may exude a milky substance when damaged.
- Stem
- The stem is cylindrical, white to pale yellow, and has a slightly granular or powdery surface. It is typically firm and brittle.
- Flesh
- The flesh is white and firm, with a mild taste and no distinct odor.
- Fruiting body
- The fruiting body of Russula aeruginea is medium to large in size, with a cap that can reach up to 10 cm in diameter.
- Habitat
- Russula aeruginea is commonly found in deciduous and coniferous forests, often associated with birch and pine trees. It fruits from summer to autumn.
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: Smooth, slightly sticky when moist
- Growth Form: Solitary or in small groups
- Spore Print: White to pale yellow
- Body color: Green to grayish-green
- Odor: Mild
- Flesh bruises: Does not typically bruise
- Height: 5-10 cm
- Cap Diameter: 5-10 cm
- Nutrient gathering: Mycorrhizal
Safe
SafeRussula aeruginea is generally considered edible and non-toxic. However, it is essential to properly identify the mushroom before consumption to avoid confusion with toxic look-alikes.
Quick Check
- Odor: Mild, not distinctive
- Fruiting: Summer to Autumn
- Substrate: Soil, under deciduous and coniferous trees
Where to Find
Europe
Common throughout Europe, particularly in birch and pine forests.
North America
Found in some regions of North America, with similar habitat preferences.
Finding Tips
Look for Green Caps
Search for mushrooms with distinctive green caps in mixed forests.
Check Under Birch and Pine Trees
Focus your search around birch and pine trees, as Russula aeruginea often forms mycorrhizal associations with these trees.
Similar Species
Russula virescens
mushroom
Also known as: Green-cracking Russula
Russula heterophylla
mushroom
Also known as: Greasy Green Russula
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Basidiomycota
- Class
- Agaricomycetes
- Order
- Russulales
- Family
- Russulaceae
- Genus
- Russula
Storage Information
- Max Temperature: 10°C
- Freezing duration: 3 months
- Min Temperature: 2°C
- Refrigeration: 3 days
How to Clean
To clean Russula aeruginea, gently brush off any dirt or debris from the cap and stem. Avoid washing them unless necessary, as they can become waterlogged. If washing is required, do so quickly and pat them dry immediately.
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