Hypomyces luteovirens
(Green Lobster)

Habitat

Sometimes found growing in a mixture of trees including Douglas Fir and Aspen around 9000 to 10,000 feet in elevation.

Description

This one is closely related to the lobster mushroom also known as the "Green Lobster". It is a parasite on both orange and red capped Russula species in Colorado. Note the fourth and fifth photos with the orange capped Russula found next to it. It is usually rare compared to the lobster mushroom but in 2023 they seemed much more abundant than in previous years. I know several people who consider it edible (and better than the lobster) in the east but little is known about its edibility. I suspect that is highly dependent on which host it parasatizes. Since it has multiple hosts one should be careful and make sure its not peppery. I do know that it is also parasitic on some peppery Russula's in the emetic group (see third picture). In my experience it is typically is it found on orange capped Russula species.

Location

Colorado

Edibility

Questionable

Color

Yellow to Green

Last Updated

Apr 20 2025 12:54 PM

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