Got a photo? Identify mushrooms instantly with the Mushby app
Open the appDescription
Russula brevipes, commonly known as the short-stemmed russula, is a species of mushroom in the family Russulaceae. It is found in coniferous forests and is characterized by its stocky stature and relatively short stem. The cap is typically white to cream-colored, often with brownish stains or patches. The gills are closely spaced and adnate to slightly decurrent. The stem is stout and white, often shorter than the cap diameter. The flesh is firm and white, with a mild taste. This mushroom is generally considered edible, but its taste is not particularly distinctive.
How to Identify
- Cap
- The cap is typically white to cream-colored, often with brownish stains or patches. It is convex to flattened in shape and can be up to 15 cm in diameter.
- Gills
- The gills are closely spaced and adnate to slightly decurrent. They are white to cream-colored.
- Stem
- The stem is stout and white, often shorter than the cap diameter. It is typically 3-8 cm long and 1-3 cm thick.
- Flesh
- The flesh is firm and white, with a mild taste.
- Fruiting body
- The fruiting body is a medium to large mushroom with a cap and stem. It is typically found in coniferous forests.
- Habitat
- Russula brevipes is found in coniferous forests, often near pine or spruce trees.
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: Smooth, dry, often with brownish stains
- Growth Form: Mycorrhizal
- Spore Print: White to cream
- Body color: White to cream, often with brownish stains
- Odor: Mild or indistinct
- Flesh bruises: Does not typically bruise
- Height: 3-8 cm
- Cap Diameter: 5-15 cm
- Nutrient gathering: Mycorrhizal
Safe
SafeRussula brevipes is generally considered edible, but it is not particularly flavorful and can sometimes be confused with other Russula species that may cause gastrointestinal upset.
Quick Check
- Odor: Mild or indistinct
- Fruiting: Solitary or in small groups
- Substrate: Soil in coniferous forests
Where to Find
North America
Common in coniferous forests throughout North America.
Europe
Found in various parts of Europe, particularly in coniferous woodlands.
Finding Tips
Look near conifers
Search for Russula brevipes near pine and spruce trees in coniferous forests.
Check after rain
Mushrooms often fruit more abundantly after periods of rain.
Similar Species
Russula delica
mushroom
Also known as: Milk-white Russula
Lactarius piperatus
mushroom
Also known as: Peppery Milk-cap
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Basidiomycota
- Class
- Agaricomycetes
- Order
- Russulales
- Family
- Russulaceae
- Genus
- Russula
Storage Information
- Max Temperature: 20
- Freezing duration: N/A
- Min Temperature: 2
- Refrigeration: 3 days
How to Clean
Clean Russula brevipes by gently brushing off any dirt or debris. Avoid soaking them in water, as they can become waterlogged. A soft brush or damp cloth works well.
Explore Short-stemmed Russula
Identify mushrooms anywhere
Free on iOS, Android, and Web. Photo identification, full database, and your personal collection.