Scorzone, Tuber aestivum

Called scorzone (bark-like) in Italian because of its tough, warty black skin, this tuber grows harmoniously on the roots of trees like chestnuts, beeches and hazelnuts. It first appears in the early summer and continues until late winter. One of the main problems with this truffle, as with all others, is that it is difficult to find and then only by dogs. However, it does sometimes grow near the surface so that its knobbly skin and other protuberances extend above the soil. The skin has pyramidal warts, but its flesh is creamy, maturing to brown with white veins. Due to its poor scent and taste it does not have a great commercial value. This poor cousin among truffles is often used in tandem with truffle oil to boost its flavour.