In some countries, this species is one of the most collected edible mushrooms because it is widespread in coniferous forests. Butter boletus also occurs in Germany and, in good mushroom years, ensures mushroom enjoyment for a particularly long time.
When is butter mushroom season?
The butter mushroom season in Central Europe mainly extends from July to October. Finds are also possible in spring in warmer regions. Butter mushrooms grow best in coniferous forests, especially near pine trees.
Fruiting time and appearance
The autumn months are the typical mushroom season in Central Europe. Some representatives such as the butter mushroom start their season in summer. The tubular mushroom can be found in the forests from July to October. Finds are also possible in warmer regions during spring.
Recognize
Typical of the species Suillus luteus is the brown colored hat with its greasy surface, which is why it is classified as a genus of butterflies. With a diameter of up to twelve centimeters and an eight centimeter high stem, the mushroom is one of the more productive specimens. When collecting, pay attention to the ring because it has a typical violet-brown color. The butter bolete gets its name from the butter-yellow flesh, which exudes a fruity smell.
These are his doppelgängers:
- Ringless Butter Mushroom: has no ring on the stem, the base of which appears pink
- Grain Bolet: with a whitish to yellowish stem without pink tones and ring
- Golden boletus: only occurs near larch trees and has a lemon-yellow to red-orange cap
Collecting in the forest
Butter mushrooms have no special requirements for the soil. Since they enter into symbioses with conifers, they can be observed on nutrient-poor and acidic soils with sandy and calcareous properties. The edible mushrooms grow in regions with a cold temperate climate and are widespread from the sea coasts to the alpine areas. They are often found in groups near pine trees.
Harvesting
Clean the butter mushroom directly where it was found. Ideally, you should peel off the slimy skin or remove the mucus with a cloth. This way you prevent dirt from sticking to the mushrooms. In addition, the secretions can cause discomfort. Since butter mushrooms are prone to maggots, cut the flesh to check.
Tip
Place the harvest in open collection containers, because here the air supply is guaranteed and the mushrooms do not spoil so quickly. Wicker baskets are ideal for collecting.
Storage
Edible mushrooms perish quickly and should be processed promptly. The fruit bodies will keep for one to two days in the vegetable compartment of the refrigerator. Place the yield loosely and airily on a cloth. Sealed containers are not suitable as condensation forms here and the fungal tissue spoils more quickly. Your harvest will last longer if you dry or freeze the butter mushroom.
Tip
Butternut mushrooms are good edible mushrooms with soft flesh. The delicate aroma comes into its own when you fry the mushroom in butter.
