Community find

Bicolor Bolete (complex)

Baorangia bicolor (formerly Boletus bicolor)

Group

bolete

Spore print

Olive-brown

Size

Cap diameter 5-15 cm; Stipe length 5-10 cm, thickness 1-3 cm.

Season

Summer to early autumn, typically after heavy rainfall.

Habitat

Found growing on the ground in association with deciduous trees, especially Oaks (Quercus). It is often found in lawns, parks, and wooded edges.

Distribution

Common in Eastern North America, ranging from Canada down to Florida and west to the Great Plains.

Key characteristics

Convex to flat cap that is deep brick-red to dull red-orange; yellow pores that bruise blue slowly; a thick, red stipe usually with yellow at the very apex.

Fruiting body

Cap is 5-15cm, dry, finely velvety when young; Hymenophore consists of tube-like pores that are yellow and stain blue when bruised; Stipe is 5-10cm long, solid, mostly red but turning yellow at the top.

How to recognise it

Look for a red cap and red stem with yellow pores that bruise blue slowly rather than instantly. The stem usually lacks reticulation (net-like patterns).

Look-alikes

Xerocomellus chrysenteron (cracked cap), Neoboletus luridiformis (instant blue bruising), and Hortiboletus campestris (smaller size).

Ecological role

Mycorrhizal, forming a symbiotic relationship with the root systems of hardwood trees, aiding in nutrient exchange.

Notes

This species is part of a complex of several genetically distinct but visually similar mushrooms. Its ability to thrive in urban settings like landscaped gardens and lawns makes it a very common sight for homeowners.