laccata

Laccaria laccata, commonly known as the deceiver, is a species of edible mushroom in the genus Laccaria. It is widely distributed in temperate forests of the Northern Hemisphere and parts of the Southern Hemisphere, and it forms ectomycorrhizal associations with trees.

Description and characteristics: The cap is typically 2–6 cm across, convex to flat, and ranges in color from brown to tan, sometimes with orange tones. The surface is usually dry. The gills are thick and widely spaced, attached to the stem (adnate to slightly decurrent). The stem is 2–5 cm long and is the same color as the cap or paler. Flesh is white, with a mild odor and taste. A spore print is white. Microscopically, spores are ellipsoid, about 6–9 by 5–6 micrometers.

Habitat and ecology: Laccaria laccata grows on soil in leaf litter within mixed woodlands, including deciduous and coniferous forests. It fruits from summer to autumn and often occurs singly or in small groups, sometimes forming ring-like patterns.

Edibility and notes: The species is edible and is considered good to eat by some foragers, though it is not highly prized for flavor. Identification should be approached with care, as color variation can be misleading. Verification through the white spore print, gill attachment, and habitat is recommended, and foraged specimens should be consumed only if properly identified. Some similar-looking brown mushrooms can be toxic, so consulting regional field guides is advised.