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These plants, funghi and insect illustrations
are part of my botanical oracle deck

Lactarius deliciosus | Saffron Milk Cap

General Mycological Information

  • Scientific Name: Lactarius deliciosus

  • Common Names: Saffron milk cap, orange milk cap

  • Habitat: Coniferous forests, especially pine

  • Native Region: Found throughout Europe and North America

  • Growing Season: Summer and autumn


Recognizing Lactarius deliciosus

  • Cap: 5-15 cm in diameter, convex to flat, orange or reddish-orange, often with concentric circles.

  • Gills: Attached to the stem, orange or reddish-orange, and crowded.

  • Stem: 3-8 cm tall, cylindrical, orange or reddish-orange, and often hollow.

  • Spore Print: Orange.

  • Lactation: When cut or bruised, the mushroom exudes a milky latex that is orange or reddish-orange and has a peppery taste.


Edibility and Toxicity

  • Edible: Lactarius deliciosus is edible and has a distinctive, peppery flavor. It is often used in soups, stews, and sauces.

  • Caution: It is important to be absolutely certain of identification before consuming any wild mushrooms, as some look-alikes can be poisonous.


Interesting Facts

  • Flavor: The peppery taste of Lactarius deliciosus is due to the presence of a compound called lactarioviolurin.

  • Culinary Uses: It is a popular ingredient in many European dishes, particularly in Italy and France.

  • Color Change: When cooked or dried, the orange color of Lactarius deliciosus may fade.


Sources for Further Reading

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