Content
The species of mushrooms Lakovitsa bicolor belongs to the genus Lakovitsa, family Hydnangiaceae. It is a conditionally edible fruiting body with low taste characteristics, which makes it not a very popular object for collection.
What two-color varnishes look like
As the name implies, the two-color varnish differs from other representatives of this genus in the color of the cap and plates. The central part of the upper surface has a heterogeneous color - from dark pink to orange-brown. The shade is usually lighter at the edges. The sparsely spaced plates on the underside are dark purple.They show through the surface at the edges, giving them a ribbed appearance.
Depending on the growing conditions, the cap may have a different shape and color. At first it looks compact with slightly curled edges. Then, as it grows, the edge line straightens out, and the finely scaly surface takes on a complex convex shape, depressed in the middle. The diameter can reach 2-7 cm.
In conditions of high humidity, the cap may take on irregular shape. The pulp is thin, with a faint radish odor and no taste.
The leg is long, thin, curved. Slightly widened at the base. The surface is rough with small vertical scales. The color is uneven, brownish-pink. When cut, the pulp is fibrous and cottony.
The height of the leg is 4-8 cm, thickness 0.3-0.7 cm. There may be a small edge at the base.
Where do bicolor varnishes grow?
Fungi of this genus are widespread throughout Eurasia and North Africa. They prefer coniferous and mixed forests, most often found under pine, fir, cedar, and spruce. They practically do not grow under deciduous trees.
The fruiting period includes the entire summer-autumn season.
Is it possible to eat two-color varnishes?
The two-colored varnish species is conditionally edible. It can be eaten only after certain heat treatment - frying, boiling, steaming. Under no circumstances should it be consumed raw.
Taste qualities of the two-color lacquer mushroom
The nutritional value of mushrooms of this genus is low. In addition, a number of studies have revealed the presence of increased levels of arsenic in representatives of this species.
False doubles
The following types of mushrooms are very similar to the two-colored lacquer:
Pink varnish (common). It can be distinguished by its smooth cap, the surface of which does not have scales. Color can vary from pink to carrot red.
The varnish is large. This double differs from two-color varnish in the absence of a lilac tint on the plates. The base of the leg also has no edge.
Lilac varnish (amethyst). The old, faded representatives of this lookalike are very similar to two-colored varnish. However, the cap of these mushrooms is small in size - from 1 to 5 cm. The stem and plates are painted in a bright purple color.
Collection rules
The main rule of mushroom pickers is “If you’re not sure, don’t take it!” In order not to risk your health, you should adhere to other basic recommendations when collecting two-color varnish:
Mushrooms that are in doubt are best left in the forest.
You should not try them raw.
In order not to confuse two-color varnish with doubles, it is necessary to take a closer look at the shape, surface of the cap and color of the plates.
Mature mushrooms may contain toxic substances that can lead to poisoning. Therefore, preference should be given to young specimens.
Pre-prepared solid containers will help maintain the integrity of the mushrooms during collection.
The leg must be cut off at the base. This will protect the mycelium from damage and allow it to bear fruit next year.
Before going into the forest, you should first familiarize yourself with the main distinguishing features of representatives of this genus.
These recommendations will protect the life and health of mushroom pickers and help you make the right choice during picking.
Use
To completely or partially remove poisons, bitterness and unpleasant odors, mushrooms are heat treated at high temperatures. But such measures reduce nutritional quality and worsen taste. Therefore, it is recommended not to cook mushrooms of this type, but to immediately fry them in their natural, raw form.
After harvesting, the two-color varnish must be prepared as quickly as possible. Damaged and insect-damaged areas should be trimmed. For better cleansing of sand and forest debris, the entire harvest must be thoroughly washed. Can be soaked for 20-30 minutes.
Conclusion
Two-colored varnish is a conditionally edible mushroom that grows mainly in coniferous forests and is distinguished by the rich brown-pink color of its plates. But due to their low nutritional and taste value, representatives of this genus are not popular among mushroom pickers.
