Leccinum aurantiacum
Leccinum aurantiacum is a species of fungus in the genus "Leccinum" found in forests of Europe, North America, and Asia and has a large, characteristically red-capped fruiting body. In North America, it is sometimes referred to by the common name red-capped scaber stalk. Some uncertainties exist regarding the taxonomic classification of this species in Europe and North America. It is considered edible. Description. The cap is orange-red and measures across. Its flesh is white, bruising at first burgundy, then grayish or purple-black. The underside of the cap has very small, whitish pores that bruise  olive-brown. The stem measures tall and thick and can bruise blue-green. It is whitish, with short, rigid projections or scabers that turn to brown to black with age. Distribution and habitat. "L. aurantiacum" can be found fruiting during summer and autumn in forests throughout Europe and North America. The association between fungus and host tree is mycorrhizal. In Europe, it has traditionally been associated with poplar trees. Some debate exists about the classification of "L. aurantiacum" and "L. quercinum" as separate species. According to authors who do not recognise the distinction, "L. aurantiacum" is also found among oak  trees. Additionally, "L. aurantiacum" has been recorded with various other deciduous trees, including beech, birch, chestnut, willow, and trees of the genus "Tilia". "L. aurantiacum" is not known to associate with conifers in Europe. North American populations have been recorded in coniferous and deciduous forests, though whether collections from coniferous forests are not "L. vulpinum", instead, remains uncertain. In addition, "L. aurantiacum" may be absent altogether from North America, with collections from deciduous forests being attributed to other North American species "L. insigne", and "L. brunneum". Edibility. This is a favorite species for eating and can be prepared as other  edible boletes. Its flesh turns very dark on cooking. Like most members of the Boletaceae, these mushrooms are targeted by maggots. Due to a number of poisonings and the difficulty identifying species, "Leccinum" species are considered by some as possibly not safe to eat. This species also needs to be cooked well (not parboiled) or else it may cause vomiting or other negative effects. Some report gastrointestinal upset after eating this species. Similar species. In Europe, several orange-red capped species exist, which differ mainly in habitat. "L. albostipitatum" grows with aspen and has white scales on the stipe. In  coniferous forests, "L. vulpinum" occurs around pine and spruce trees. Not all authors recognise these as distinct species. In North America, "L. insigne" grows in aspen or birch stands, while "L. atrostipitatum" grows in birch stands. Both are edible. Another similar species is "L. versipelle".