How to Identify Cascade Russula

Scientific Name: Russula cascadensis

Cascade Russula identification
Image source: MushroomObserver (CC BY-SA 3.0)

✅ Edibility Note

EDIBLE: Mild flavor. WHITE CAP + BRITTLE FLESH + NO LATEX + PNW CONIFERS diagnostic. Taste test confirms. Cook thoroughly.

Description

Cascade Russula has white cap (5-15 cm), becoming yellowish with age. Gills white, crowded. Stem white, thick. KEY: BRITTLE FLESH, NO LATEX, large white mushroom, Pacific Northwest. Flesh white. Spore print white. Mild taste.

Habitat & Distribution

Habitat: Mycorrhizal with CONIFERS in Pacific Northwest, especially Douglas fir, hemlock, true firs. Grows on ground in coniferous forests. Regional endemic. Scattered or groups.

Region: Pacific Northwest, British Columbia, Northern California

Seasonality

Fall (September-November), fruiting after fall rains.

Common Lookalikes

Always verify identification to avoid these similar species:

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Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only. Never consume a wild mushroom unless you are 100% certain of its identification.