Description
Genus: Boletus
Species: barrowsii
Common Name: “White King Bolete”
Tells: White pores age toward yellowish or light brown. Oft-bulbous pinkish buff-to-brown stem w/fine white netting at least on top.
Other Information: White, buff & light brown all over. Prefers conifers, but sometimes found under oak.
Edibility: Choice.
CHEMICAL TESTS:
- NH4OH (Ammonia): No data.
- KOH: No data.
- FeSO4 (Iron Salts): Cap flesh turns gray.
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Got something to discuss?
On August 7, 2018 I found a dozen or so mushrooms which meet the published description and images of boletus barrowsii in every respect, except that there is a slight blue staining of the gills when cut. There is no staining of the stipe or the cap; these remain beautifully white.
These were found on Mt. Hood in Oregon under predominantly Douglas Fir, in mature second growth stands, at 3800 ft.
The published descriptions of b. barrowsii indicate that there is no blue staining anywhere, including in the gills
Is the no-blue-stain an absolute for b. barrowsii?
If I don’t have barrowsii, what is it? The area produces good quantities (normally) of b. edulis-types in the fall and early winter. Many of these are blue staining and many are not. I’d estimate the relative frequency is about 50/50 in this area. I’ve concluded that the blue staining ones from that area are primarily b. badius, which I avoid eating because of its relatively bitter taste and because of the reputed (and disputed) gastro-intestinal troubles.
So……?
I’m in the same bind. Found two in a pine dominated area near zig zag on mt hood. Stained blue when i cut it. Very large mushroom. Was positive by the look that i found a white king. But was unsure.