How to Identify Bitter Bolete and Enjoy Mushroom Picking Without Worries
How to Recognize the Bitter Bolete and Why (Not) to Collect It
The season of forest walks and baskets full of mushrooms is a cherished ritual for many Czechs. It's no wonder – mushroom picking is almost a national sport here, combining the enjoyment of nature, exercise, and the joy of a find. Among the dozens of edible mushroom species, however, there are a few that definitely should not end up in the frying pan. One of them is the bitter bolete, colloquially known simply as the bitter one. Although not poisonous, it can ruin an entire meal with a single bite.
What is the Bitter Bolete and Why to Avoid It
The bitter bolete (Tylopilus felleus) is a common mistake among novice mushroom hunters. At first glance, it resembles edible boletes – such as the spruce or pine bolete. It has a brown cap, a fleshy stem, and often grows in the same places as popular edible species. The problem arises after cooking – its taste is unbearably bitter. And worse, this bitterness does not disappear with cooking or frying. Even a small piece mixed into a dish can spoil the entire meal.
Although the bitter bolete is not poisonous, its strong bitterness acts as a defense mechanism, often leaving it untouched even by forest wildlife. It's not uncommon for someone who accidentally adds it to a dish to avoid mushrooms for a long time. That's why it's important to know how to distinguish the bitter bolete from edible boletes and thus avoid disappointment.
Key Features in the Field
Distinguishing the bitter bolete from edible boletes can be easy if you know what to look for. There are several reliable features by which this mushroom can be safely identified. We usually focus on three main parts – the stem, tubes, and taste.
1. Stem with a Distinct Net:
The bitter bolete has a very noticeable dark brown net on the stem, often considered the most reliable identifying feature. This net is sharply outlined and contrasts with the lighter background of the stem. In edible boletes, the net is less distinct or of a different shade – for example, pink in the oak bolete.
2. Tubes and Pores:
On the underside of the cap, the bitter bolete has tubes that are whitish in young specimens and later turn pinkish. They do not change color when pressed – unlike some other boletes that turn blue. This can be a clue, but not foolproof.
3. Taste as a Final Check:
If you're still unsure, you can try a small piece of raw mushroom carefully on the tip of your tongue and immediately spit it out. The bitter bolete is extremely bitter – you'll recognize the taste almost immediately. This method is recommended only for experienced mushroom hunters and should never be used with unknown, potentially poisonous species.
Where and When the Bitter Bolete Grows
The bitter bolete is found in both coniferous and deciduous forests, most often under spruces, pines, and beeches. It grows from June to October, with the most abundant occurrence in August and September. It prefers acidic soils and is mainly found at higher altitudes. Interestingly, despite its infamous reputation, it is fairly common – often mushroom hunters unknowingly bring it home in their baskets.
And here lies the problem: it can look very similar to edible boletes. Novice mushroom hunters who haven't yet learned to thoroughly distinguish individual features can easily mistake it. In some areas, it is even considered one of the most common reasons for a ruined mushroom soup or fry-up.
How a Small Mistake Ruined a Sunday Lunch
Mrs. Jaroslava from Jablonec nad Nisou went to the forest with her family at the beginning of September. After several hours, they returned home with a basket full of beautiful mushrooms – mostly boletes, a few pink russulas, and some birch boletes. The fry-up smelled throughout the apartment, but after the first bite, everyone paused. "We thought we just hadn't salted it enough, but that awful bitter aftertaste was impossible to ignore,” she recounts with a smile. Upon closer inspection of the basket, they found the culprit – one bitter bolete hidden among the true boletes.
This example is a clear proof that even one poorly identified piece can cause disappointment, and that it pays to pay attention to proper identification.
Can the Bitter Bolete Be Good for Anything?
Interestingly, despite its inedibility, the bitter bolete has some uses. Some people dry it and use it as a natural insect repellent – its aroma repels beetles and moths. In some countries, its potential use in medicine is being researched, as it contains substances with antibacterial effects. However, it remains entirely unsuitable for culinary use.
In folk wisdom, there's a humorous note that "the bitter bolete is recognized by the fact that even a slug doesn't want it." While this isn't a scientific identification key, in some cases it can be surprisingly accurate…
What to Watch Out for When Collecting Mushrooms
Mushroom picking is a beautiful activity, but it requires some knowledge. If you're not sure about your find, it's better to leave it in the forest. Today, there are many ways to verify a mushroom species – from classic atlases to mobile apps and Facebook groups with experts. Additionally, it's beneficial to learn from experienced mushroom hunters who can provide valuable tips directly in the field.
One good tip is to sort mushrooms by species right during collection – placing each group in a separate cloth bag or box. This reduces the risk of bringing home a bitter bolete hidden among boletes.
And what if you happen to cook a bitter bolete? The good news is, it's not harmful to health. However, the food will be practically inedible, and you'll have to opt for something else. As renowned mycologist Miroslav Smotlacha says: "The bitter bolete is a textbook example that even a non-poisonous mushroom can be completely inedible."
Summary of Practical Features to Recognize the Bitter Bolete:
This mushroom is recognized by a distinct dark brown net on the stem and pinkish tubes on the underside of the cap, which is usually brown, matte, and often quite dry. Once you taste it, it will immediately let you know – its extreme bitterness is unmistakable. You'll find it mainly in coniferous and deciduous forests, often near spruces or beeches.
An experienced mushroom hunter can recognize the bitter bolete from a distance, but for beginners, it can be tricky. That's why it's good to learn, ask, and not be afraid to seek advice. Nature offers us many edible treasures – and with a bit of care and attention, unpleasant surprises can be easily avoided. After all, mushroom picking should be primarily a joy, not a lottery.
