About Lactarius occidentalis A.H.Sm.
The cap of Lactarius occidentalis ranges in color from olive to cinnamon, and measures approximately 1 to 3 centimeters in diameter. When young, the cap has a convex shape; as the mushroom matures, it becomes flat, and eventually develops a depressed center. The gills are tan or orangish in color, and have an adnate attachment to the stipe. The stipe itself is olive or orangish, and measures about 2 to 6 centimeters long, and 4 to 7 millimeters wide. The spore print of this species is white. Lactarius occidentalis produces small amounts of white latex, which turns yellowish as it dries. In terms of habitat and ecology, this species grows in mycorrhizal association with alder trees, and produces fruiting bodies from late summer through fall.
