Russula cremoricolor, also known as the winter russula, is a species of gilled mushroom. It is mildly toxic.
Taxonomy The red variant was previously identified as Russula silvicola, but was found to be genetically identical to the cream-colored R. cremoricolor.
Description This mushroom has red, cream-yellow, and pink color variants, which complicates attempts at field identification.
Similar species R. californiensis is similar, but R. cremoricolor keeps its gills and stipe white even in age, has a sharper taste, and associates with mixed forest or tanoak rather than pine.
Habitat The species can be found growing in groups.
Toxicity The species is mildly toxic, causing intestinal distress even when consumed in small amounts. Its acrid taste is also a deterrent.
See also List of Russula species Russula emetica
References