King bolete

King bolete (Boletus edulis) is a popular mushroom from the bolete family (Boletaceae), growing from mid-June to November, especially in autumn. It occurs throughout the temperate zone of the Northern Hemisphere. It grows in deep forests, on their edges, and along forest roads, from lowlands to high mountain areas – mainly at 300 – 900 m above sea level.

It is a mycorrhizal fungus associated primarily with the spruce, but under certain conditions, it can also form mycorrhizae with birch, oak, beech, or other deciduous trees.

The cap is 5-20 cm wide, initially of whitish color and later brown. The flesh is white and firm when young, but cottony when old. The color does not change when cut.

It is considered to be one of the most delicious mushrooms in the world, having a pleasant mushroom-like taste and a fleshy consistency. It is popular among mushroom pickers for growing in large quantities and producing large fruiting bodies. It is used in various dishes, including soups, stews, and sauces, being suitable for drying and freezing as well.

The king bolete is a rich source of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin D, potassium, and copper.

It can be confused with the summer bolete (Boletus reticulatus), also an edible mushroom, which is, however, distinguished by a reticulated stem and a matte cap. You can also confuse it with the inedible and terribly bitter, Bitter bolete (Tylopilus felleus), which often grows in the same localities.

In some cultures, king bolete is considered a symbol of luck and prosperity.