Russula cessans

Russula cessans A. Pearson (illustrated 50% life size) Cap 3–8cm across, soon flattened; deep crimson to purplish-red, often darker at the centre; dry, smooth; half peeling. Stem 30–50×10–20mm, equal; white. Flesh white; taste mild, smell not distinctive. Gills fairly close; pale ochre. Spores 8–9×7–8µ, broadly ovate; warts 0.6–1µ high, many connections forming a partial reticulation. Spore print deep ochre (G). Habitat with pines, especially on sandy soil; autumn. Rare, vulnerable on Red Data List. Edible. Note photographed by Geoffrey Kibby.