Gyroporus cyanescens

The bluing bolete, Gyroporus cyanescens, isn’t the commonest thing in the woods, but it is memorable. That pale, scruffy mushroom with the matted top suddenly turns intense blue wherever it’s touched. The pore surface is initially white but ages to pale yellow. This mushroom, like its cousin the chestnut bolete, is brittle and has a hollowing stalk. It is also edible, with a mild bolete flavor.

Photo credit: Mike Hopping

Mushroom Spotlight