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Hygrophorus russula or russula (Hygrophorus russula) is a lamellar basidiomycete fungus, a representative of the genus Hygrophorus of the Hygrophoraceae family. It received its specific name because of its external similarity to russula.
Also known among mushroom pickers as cherry blossom, most likely due to its color.
What does hygrophorus russula look like?
A fleshy, large mushroom of dark pink or purple color. The cap is strong, large, about 5-15 cm in diameter. The surface is fibrous, often covered with radial cracks. In young specimens, the shape of the cap is convex, with age it becomes prostrate, sometimes with a tubercle and thickening in the center. Its edges are slightly tucked towards the leg.The surface of the cap is slippery and sticky. Its color is uneven in all mushrooms.
The leg is quite long - 5-12 cm, about 1-4 cm thick. It is never hollow. The shape is cylindrical, generally tapering downwards. The leg at the base expands quite rarely. Its surface is smooth, dry, and there is slight pubescence in the upper part.
The color of the leg can be pink or purple; this is one of the main characteristics that distinguishes the species from a simple russula
The pulp is white, quite dense. When in contact with air, it changes color and becomes dark red. The plates of the hymenophore are frequent, descending onto the stalk. The colors are white, becoming reddish or purple as they grow. The spores are ovoid, medium in size. Spore powder is white.
Where does hygrophorus russula grow?
Grows in mountainous or hilly areas. Prefers broad-leaved and mixed plantings. Forms mycorrhiza with oak and beech. Loves soils covered with moss.
Is it possible to eat hygrophorus russula?
Hygrophorus russula is an edible mushroom, 4 categories of nutritional value. It is practically tasteless and has a faint, powdery odor.
False doubles
The fungus's counterpart is the reddening hygrophorus. Also an edible species, which can be distinguished by the following characteristics:
- smaller cap sizes;
- longer leg;
- dome-shaped cap;
- bitter taste;
- the presence of mucus and purple scales on the cap.
The double has a more bitter taste, although it also belongs to the category of edible mushrooms and is completely safe
Collection rules
Russula hygrophorus grows in small groups during a favorable period for it. Fruiting time is August-October. Sometimes mushroom picking continues until the first snow falls.
Use
The mushroom does not have any special gastronomic value. It can be boiled, fried, dried, pickled. Often these mushrooms are used to prepare sauces, side dishes, and soups. Due to its not very bright taste, hygrophorus russula is most often preserved together with other mushrooms.
Conclusion
Hygrophorus russula is a valuable, nutritious and healthy mushroom. It is not found very often in forests, but it can easily be grown at home, in your garden. The mushroom has a pleasant taste. In terms of taste, it is considered the best among all members of the family. It can be consumed fresh, as well as prepared for the winter in different ways.
