How to Identify Crowded Russula

Scientific Name: Russula densifolia

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

✅ Edibility Note

EDIBLE: Mild flavor. WHITE CAP + VERY CROWDED GILLS + BRITTLE FLESH diagnostic. Taste test (mild specimens edible). Cook thoroughly.

Description

Crowded Russula has white to cream cap (4-10 cm), sometimes with brownish tones. Gills white, VERY CROWDED. Stem white. KEY: BRITTLE FLESH, VERY CROWDED GILLS, white colors. Flesh white. Spore print white. Mild to slightly acrid.

Habitat & Distribution

Habitat: Mycorrhizal with conifers and hardwoods. Grows on ground in mixed forests. Pacific Northwest species. Scattered or groups.

Region: Pacific Northwest, California, British Columbia

Seasonality

Fall (September-November).

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.