Got a photo? Identify mushrooms instantly with the Mushby app
Open the appDescription
The Purple Brittlegill (Russula atropurpurea) is a medium-sized mushroom known for its striking purple to brownish-purple cap and brittle texture. It is commonly found in deciduous and coniferous forests, forming mycorrhizal associations with trees. While generally considered edible, its peppery taste may not appeal to everyone.
How to Identify
- Cap
- The cap is typically 5-15 cm in diameter, convex when young, flattening with age, and often develops a shallow depression. The color ranges from deep purple to brownish-purple, sometimes with darker spots or blotches. The surface is smooth and slightly sticky when moist.
- Gills
- The gills are closely spaced, brittle, and adnate to slightly decurrent. They are typically white to cream-colored, sometimes with a yellowish tint.
- Stem
- The stem is typically 5-10 cm long and 1-2 cm thick, cylindrical, and white to pale pink. The surface is smooth and dry.
- Flesh
- White and brittle.
- Fruiting body
- Medium-sized mushroom with a purple to brownish-purple cap.
- Habitat
- Deciduous and coniferous forests, often found under oak and beech trees.
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: Smooth, Slightly Sticky
- Growth Form: Solitary or scattered
- Spore Print: White to Cream
- Body color: Purple, Brownish-Purple, White
- Odor: Mild, sometimes slightly fruity
- Flesh bruises: No bruising
- Height: 5-10 cm
- Cap Diameter: 5-15 cm
- Nutrient gathering: Mycorrhizal
Safe
SafeWhile Russula atropurpurea is generally considered edible, some Russula species can cause gastrointestinal upset. It is important to properly identify this mushroom and avoid consuming it if you are unsure of its identity.
Quick Check
- Odor: Mild
- Fruiting: Late summer to autumn
- Substrate: Soil
Where to Find
Forests
Deciduous and coniferous forests
Finding Tips
Habitat
Look for them under oak and beech trees.
Season
They typically appear in late summer and autumn.
Similar Species
Russula emetica
Russula
Also known as: The Sickener
Russula fragrantissima
Russula
Also known as: Fragrant Brittlegill
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Basidiomycota
- Class
- Agaricomycetes
- Order
- Russulales
- Family
- Russulaceae
- Genus
- Russula
Storage Information
- Max Temperature: 4
- Freezing duration: 3 months
- Min Temperature: 2
- Refrigeration: 2-3 days
How to Clean
Gently brush off any dirt or debris. A soft, damp cloth can be used to wipe the cap. Avoid soaking in water.
Explore Purple Brittlegill
Identify mushrooms anywhere
Free on iOS, Android, and Web. Photo identification, full database, and your personal collection.