Russula earlei is a species of mushroom that belongs to the genus Russula. It has a cap that ranges from 3-8 cm in diameter, typically reddish-brown to brown in color, and often has a depressed center. The gills are creamy white to pale yellow and are attached to the stem. The stem itself is usually white or cream-colored and measures 3-6 cm long and 1-2 cm thick. In East and Central Texas, Russula earlei is commonly found growing in association with oak trees, particularly under live oaks and post oaks, during the summer and early fall months.
Underside of brittlegill mushroom Russula earlei on a sandy trail in a pine forest in Big Creek Scenic Area of Sam Houston National Forest. Shepherd, Texas, September 12, 2020 Big Creek Trail, Shepherd, TX 77371, USA
Brittlegill mushrooms Russula earlei on a sandy trail in a pine forest in Big Creek Scenic Area of Sam Houston National Forest. Shepherd, Texas, September 12, 2020 Big Creek Trail, Shepherd, TX 77371, USA
Distant gills of a mushroom Russula earlei on a sandy trail in a pine forest in Big Creek Scenic Area of Sam Houston National Forest. Shepherd, Texas, September 12, 2020 Big Creek Trail, Shepherd, TX 77371, USA
Dissected mature brittlegill mushrooms Russula earlei in Big Creek Scenic Area of Sam Houston National Forest. Shepherd, Texas, September 12, 2020 Big Creek Trail, Shepherd, TX 77371, USA
Upper view of Beeswax Russula mushrooms (Russula earlei) on a path under pines and oaks in Big Creek Scenic Area of Sam Houston National Forest. Shepherd, Texas, July 10, 2021 Big Creek Trail, Shepherd, TX 77371, USA
Underside of brittlegill mushrooms Russula earlei in Big Creek Scenic Area of Sam Houston National Forest. Shepherd, Texas, July 10, 2021 Big Creek Trail, Shepherd, TX 77371, USA
Cross section of brittlegill mushrooms Russula earlei in Big Creek Scenic Area of Sam Houston National Forest. Shepherd, Texas, July 10, 2021 Big Creek Trail, Shepherd, TX 77371, USA
AI-generated summary of observations
Observations of the fungus Russula earlei in East and Central Texas reveal its presence in pine forests, particularly in the Big Creek Scenic Area of Sam Houston National Forest. The mushroom was found growing on sandy trails, often under pines and oaks. Photographs from September 12, 2020, and July 10, 2021, show the underside and upper view of the mushrooms, as well as distant gills and cross-sections. Dissected mature specimens were also observed, providing further insight into the species' morphology. The mushrooms were found to be associated with both pine and oak trees, suggesting a possible symbiotic relationship. Overall, the observations suggest that Russula earlei is a common species in the region, thriving in the specific habitat of the Big Creek Scenic Area. Its presence was documented on multiple occasions, indicating a stable population in the area.