Hypomyces lactifluorum
(Lobster Mushroom)

Habitat

The can be found under Ponderosa and Lodgepole pines. In open areas partially buried under the pine needles. Russula brevipes is a good indicator that your in the right area as it is the host species.

Description

The Lobster is not a mushroom really, but a parasitic mold that attacks some species of Russula and Lactarius. Typically Russula brevipes is the host. These were attacking Russula brevipes var. acrior. There were many R. brevipes in the area. One row had about 4 lobsters and an R. brevipes on the end that didn't get infected. If you're walking through the woods in late July or August and you see what looks like partially buried orange peels they are probably lobster mushrooms.

They are a great mushroom to cook in an alfredo cream sauce with pasta. They also work great in Cream of Mushroom soup. The texture can remain crunchy after cooking unlike other mushrooms. They are commonly served with pasta.

Edibility

Edible

Color

Orange, White inside

Last Updated

Jan 20 2023 01:05 PM

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