Around 750 worldwide species of ectomycorrhizal mushrooms compose the genus Russula. They are typically common, fairly large, and brightly colored – making them one of the most recognizable genera among mycologists and mushroom collectors.

Can you eat Russulas?

Russula is mostly free of deadly poisonous species, and mild-tasting ones are all edible.

How can you tell a Russula?

The best way to determine whether a Russula is edible is to take a small bite and ascertain whether the taste is mild or acerbic. There is no known species of Russula that is deadly and the Russulas that have a mild taste are edible. If it is acerbic, it is a good indication that it will result in intestinal distress.