About Russula fellea (Fr.) Fr.
The cap of Russula fellea is usually 4–9 cm wide; it starts convex, flattens as it matures, and often has a broad central umbo (boss). Mature specimens sometimes have furrowed cap margins. The stipe is the same general color as the cap but paler, firm and stout, measuring 2–6 cm tall and 1–2 cm wide. The gills are adnexed, matching the color of the stem, and produce a spore print that ranges from white to pale cream. The flesh is white and does not change color when cut. It has a hot taste and often a bitter tang. Its odor has been variously reported to resemble geraniums or apple sauce. Russula fellea fruits in autumn. In Britain, it is found growing in association with beech (Fagus), while in other parts of Europe it sometimes occurs with spruce (Picea). It normally grows on well-drained acid soils, and is widespread across northern temperate zones including Britain, Europe, and Asia. It is not found in North America, where it is replaced by the closely related species Russula simillima. It grows in deciduous and coniferous woodlands and forests.
