Russula lenkunya

Description:

Spotted this lovely pinkish plumb-red coloured Russula mushroom. The cap was approx. 4-5 cms in diameter, with close, white gills. Broadly convex cap with a central depression and smooth margin, and a matt surface texture, or at least appearance. Cap colour appearing to fade. Overall height approx. 5-6 cms. Smooth, sturdy stipe thicker at the base with a reddish tint, but no ring. Spore print cream. Also known as Russula clelandi. NB: I've sourced this information from "The field guide to Australian Fungi" by Bruce Fuhrer. It's an awesome guide and a trusted source. I've yet to find a common name for this species, but lenkunya is an Aboriginal word meaning ‘beautiful’.

Habitat:

Spotted in a suburban park adjacent to native bushland, in northwest Sydney. I found this single specimen growing on grass beneath eucalyptus trees. Clay-based soil, usually dry, but well-saturated after frequent rains these past few weeks. Well-shaded area for most of the day. Russula species mushrooms are common in Australian eucalypt forests.