About Lactarius subdulcis (Pers.) Gray
The cap of Lactarius subdulcis is initially convex, measuring 3–7 cm (1–3 in) across, and later develops a depression. It sometimes bears a small umbo, and its colour ranges from reddish-brown, rusty, to dark cinnamon, paling to buff as it ages while remaining darker at the center. The cap texture varies from fairly rigid to flexible, and its surface is smooth to slightly wrinkled. The cap margin is incurved when young, and may sometimes be slightly furrowed. The stem is 3–7 cm long and 6–13 mm thick; it is generally cylindrical, but can also be club-shaped. The stem is sometimes furrowed lengthwise, matches the cap in colour overall, and is paler at the top. The flesh is pale, and only a thin layer of flesh is present in the cap. The crowded gills are adnate to slightly decurrent, and can be white or pink in colour. This species produces abundant white milk that does not stain fabrics yellow, a trait that distinguishes it from other Lactarius species such as L. decipiens. It has a faint, oily scent. Lactarius subdulcis occurs in Europe and does not grow in North America, though a number of similar brownish-orange species were formerly classified under this name. It grows in broad-leaved woodland, especially on the forest floor at the base of beech trees. Alongside L. vellereus, L. subdulcis is one of the most common agarics associated with beech trees. Mushrooms appear from late summer to late autumn, and the species is common. Fruiting bodies can grow individually or in small groups. They may also grow in fields, typically appearing in large batches, with groups of over a hundred mushrooms not uncommon.
