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Russula heterophylla, commonly known as the greasy green brittlegill, is a mild-tasting, edible mushroom of the genus Russula. It is typically found in mixed woods in late summer and autumn. It is commonly eaten in many parts of the world.
How to Identify
- Cap
- 5–10 cm in diameter, plano-convex when young, but flattening and slightly depressed when mature. The cap is various shades of green, sometimes with brown or ochre spots. The cap cuticle is smooth, greasy, and easily peeled.
- Gills
- Adnate to slightly decurrent, crowded, and white to cream.
- Stem
- Cylindrical, white, and measures 3–7 cm long by 1–2 cm wide.
- Flesh
- White, with a mild taste and a fruity smell.
- Fruiting body
- The fruiting body has a cap of 5–10 cm in diameter, plano-convex when young, but flattening and slightly depressed when mature. The cap is various shades of green, sometimes with brown or ochre spots. The cap cuticle is smooth, greasy, and easily peeled. The gills are adnate to slightly decurrent, crowded, and white to cream. The stem is cylindrical, white, and measures 3–7 cm long by 1–2 cm wide. The flesh is white, with a mild taste and a fruity smell.
- Habitat
- Mixed woods in late summer and autumn.
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: Smooth, greasy, easily peeled
- Growth Form: Solitary or scattered
- Spore Print: White to cream
- Body color: Green, sometimes with brown or ochre spots
- Odor: Fruity
- Flesh bruises: No bruising
- Height: 3-7 cm
- Cap Diameter: 5-10 cm
- Nutrient gathering: Mycorrhizal
Safe
SafeRussula heterophylla is generally considered edible and non-toxic.
Quick Check
- Odor: Fruity
- Fruiting: Late Summer to Autumn
- Substrate: Soil in mixed woods
Where to Find
Europe
Russula heterophylla is commonly found throughout Europe.
North America
This species has also been reported in some parts of North America.
Finding Tips
Look in Mixed Woods
Search for Russula heterophylla in mixed woods, where both deciduous and coniferous trees are present.
Late Summer and Autumn
The best time to find these mushrooms is in late summer and autumn.
Similar Species
Sickener
mushroom
Also known as: Russula emetica
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Basidiomycota
- Class
- Agaricomycetes
- Order
- Russulales
- Family
- Russulaceae
- Genus
- Russula
Storage Information
- Max Temperature: 4°C (39°F)
- Freezing duration: 3-6 months
- Min Temperature: 2°C (36°F)
- Refrigeration: 2-3 days
How to Clean
To clean Russula heterophylla, gently brush off any dirt or debris from the cap and stem. A soft, damp cloth can be used to wipe the surface. Avoid soaking the mushroom in water, as it can become waterlogged.
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