How to identify Ghostly Russula

To correctly identify Ghostly Russula (Russula chloroides), 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.

   5-15 cm diameter, concave to funnel-shaped, matte white to cream, often stained brown.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   Decurrent, very crowded, white or cream often with a distinct blue-green tint near the cap margin.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   Short, thick, solid, white, smooth to slightly wrinkled.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   Firm, white, unchanging, with a mild to slightly acrid taste.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   Solid, firm, and medium to large sized.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Mycorrhizal with deciduous and coniferous trees, typically in mossy or woodland areas.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Matte, velvety, often depressed or funnel-shaped

Growth Form

Solitary or in small groups

Spore Print

White to cream

Body color

White to cream with green tinting on gills

Odor

Mild, fruity

Flesh bruises

No significant color change

Height

3-8 cm

Cap Diameter

5-15 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Decurrent
• Stem shape: Cylindrical or tapering downwards
• Stem surface: Smooth
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: Solid

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