⚠ If you suspect ingestion of this species, call Poison Control immediately:
1-800-222-1222 (US) · poison.org

Downy Milk Cap

Lactarius pubescens

⚠ Mildly Toxic

Monitor symptoms; call Poison Control if they persist: 1-800-222-1222

Habitat: sandy soil under birch
Peak season: Summer-Fall

Key Identification Features

Creamy-buff hairy to downy cap with inrolled margin
whitish gills
short stout stem
white acrid milk
under birch on sandy soil
inedible due to hot peppery acrid compounds
requires prolonged pickling if ever used

Symptoms & Toxicity

Acrid compounds cause GI irritation; do not eat raw; very hot taste

Regions Found

Region data not available

Look-Alikes

No documented look-alikes on record.

Safety disclaimer: This page is for educational purposes only. Never eat a wild mushroom based solely on online information. Always verify identification using multiple reliable field guides and, when possible, consult an experienced forager or mycologist. When in doubt, don't eat it. Spore & Scout accepts no responsibility for identification errors or adverse reactions. If you believe someone has ingested a toxic mushroom, call Poison Control (1-800-222-1222) immediately.