Lactarius frustratus is a species of milk cap fungus that grows on the ground in association with oak trees. In East and Central Texas, it typically fruits from May to October, producing small to medium-sized caps that are 2-6 cm in diameter, convex to flat in shape, and reddish-brown to orange-brown in color with a slightly darker center. The gills are crowded, narrow, and cream-colored, and the spores are white. The stem is slender, 2-5 cm long, and the same color as the cap. Lactarius frustratus is considered edible but not highly prized due to its mild flavor and soft texture. It can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodland edges, oak savannas, and urban parks, throughout East and Central Texas.
Milkcap mushrooms Lactarius frustratus in a swampy area near the creek in Big Creek Scenic Area of Sam Houston National Forest. Shepherd, Texas, October 20, 2019
Close up of milkcap mushrooms Lactarius frustratus in a swampy area near the creek in Big Creek Scenic Area of Sam Houston National Forest. Shepherd, Texas, October 20, 2019
Dissected milkcap mushrooms Lactarius frustratus in a swampy area near the creek in Big Creek Scenic Area of Sam Houston National Forest. Shepherd, Texas, October 20, 2019
Milkcap mushrooms Lactarius frustratus in a wet place near the creek in Big Creek Scenic Area of Sam Houston National Forest. Shepherd, Texas, November 2, 2019
Milkcap mushrooms Lactarius frustratus(?) in a pine forest in Big Creek Scenic Area of Sam Houston National Forest. Shepherd, Texas, November 2, 2019
Milkcap mushrooms Lactarius frustratus in a swampy place near the creek in Big Creek Scenic Area of Sam Houston National Forest. Shepherd, Texas, October 11, 2020
Milkcap mushrooms Lactarius frustratus(?) in wet area on Caney Creek section of Lone Star Hiking Trail in Sam Houston National Forest north from Montgomery. Texas, April 18, 2021
Cross section of milkcap mushrooms Lactarius frustratus(?) in wet area on Caney Creek section of Lone Star Hiking Trail in Sam Houston National Forest north from Montgomery. Texas, April 18, 2021Observations of the fungus Lactarius frustratus in East and Central Texas reveal that it typically thrives in swampy or wet areas near creeks. The mushrooms were found in the Big Creek Scenic Area of Sam Houston National Forest, specifically near the creek in October and November 2019, and again in October 2020. They were also spotted in a pine forest in the same area on November 2, 2019. Additionally, sightings were reported in wet areas on the Caney Creek section of Lone Star Hiking Trail in April 2021. The mushrooms were often found in close proximity to water sources, suggesting a preference for humid environments. Dissected specimens and cross-sections were also observed, providing further insight into the species' characteristics. Overall, Lactarius frustratus appears to be well-adapted to the region's wetland ecosystems.
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