Dark Stalked Bolete
Leccinum atrostipitatum
Do not eat any fungi that has not been properly identified by a qualified professional, some are DEADLY when ingested. All edible wild fungi MUST be cooked.
This common bolete can be easily found in forests in which there are mostly deciduous trees, especially birches. Dark-stalked boletes are not a commonly sought-after edible fungi due to the lack of taste or scent. They can be found scattered or solitary.
Type
Distinguishing Features
The caps of dark-stalked boletes can measure anywhere between 7 and 20 cm (3 - 8”) across, are convex, dry, yellow-orange in colour, and hairy to fibril-streaked. The flesh is white, staining grey then black. The flesh discolours when cut, bruised or damaged. Stalks can get to about 3.5 cm (1.5”) in width, firm, are white with many raised black markings called scabers. These scabers are black when young and at maturity, blue or blue-green stains occasionally appear on lower part of the stalk.
Height
10 – 20 cm (4 – 8”).
Habitat
Dark-stalked boletes are generally found in mixed woods near deciduous trees across North America, Europe, and Asia. There is a mycorrhizal association with poplar, birch, and oak.
Spore Print
Spores are brown,spindle-shaped ellipsoids, and smooth.
Season
Approximately July into early autumn.
Gills
Boletes have pores. These pores are small, round, smoky to blackish-brown.
Edibility
Always pick healthy-looking specimens and cook before consuming. Bake in oven or fry dry – added oils or butter will make these mushy. Do not eat in large quantities or frequently. This bolete does not have a distinctive taste nor scent.
To support our efforts please browse our store (books with medicinal info, etc.).
Winter Survival Food Handbook
Types of Wild Food
Now available! Beginner's Guide to Safely Foraging for Wild Mushrooms
