Russula illota is an inedible species of mushroom in the genus Russula

Russula

Around 750 worldwide species of mycorrhizal mushrooms compose the genus Russula. They are typically common, fairly large, and brightly colored - making them one of the most recognizable genera among mycologists and mushroom collectors...

. It is commonly found in deciduous and coniferous forests on chalk.

Description

The cap is spherical when young, later broadly convex and can be flat when old. It is dull ochre and covered in a grey slime, up to 15 cm in diameter. The gills are pale cream and close together, giving of a scent of bitter almonds when rubbed. The spores are also pale cream. The stem is white and becomes blotchy with age.

Similar species

Russula laurocerasi is not yet technically distinguished from this species.