Species details
Blackening brittlegill
Russula nigricans
Extra caution required
Photo: Frank Gardiner (Zonda Grattus) · CC BY 3.0 · Photo source · License
Description
A large brittlegill that first reddens and then slowly blackens after damage.
Identification features
Gills are very thick and widely spaced; old fruitbodies become almost entirely black.
Identification checklist
Check the entire fruitbody for identification. A large brittlegill that first reddens and then slowly blackens after damage. Gills are very thick and widely spaced; old fruitbodies become almost entirely black. Typical habitat: Deciduous and coniferous woodland, often with beech, oak and spruce.
How to separate similar species
Compare especially with these similar species: Russula delica, Russula densifolia. Check the combination of cap shape and colour, spore-bearing surface, stem, flesh changes and habitat. A single feature or photograph is not enough; if the key characters do not match the description, do not treat the identification as confirmed.
Habitat
Deciduous and coniferous woodland, often with beech, oak and spruce.
Fruiting period
July, August, September, October, November
Similar species
- Milk-white brittlegill (Russula delica)
- Russula densifolia