Boletaceae
Red-cracking Bolete: Edible Plant
Xerocomellus chrysenteron
This is a mycelial fungus that requires a moist, shaded environment and the presence of host trees for symbiosis.
Every 3 days
Low light
10° - 22°C
70% - 95%
Categories
What is Red-cracking Bolete?
Red-cracking Bolete (Xerocomellus chrysenteron) is a medium-care plant from the Boletaceae family. Xerocomellus chrysenteron, commonly known as the red-cracking bolete, is a common edible mushroom characterized by its velvety, brown cap that cracks at maturity to reveal a reddish subcutaneous layer. The pores are yellow, turning greenish-blue when bruised, and the stem is often tinted with ruby r...
Red-cracking Bolete grows up to 10cm, spread of 8cm, watering every 3 days, 10°C – 22°C, 70–95% humidity. It is not suitable for indoor environments and safe for pets.
Unlike many popular species, Red-cracking Bolete is safe to keep around pets.
How to Care for Red-cracking Bolete?
TLDR: Red-cracking Bolete needs Low light, watering every 3 days, and temperatures between 10-22°C with 70-95% humidity.
How Often Should You Water Red-cracking Bolete?
Keep the substrate moist by simulating frequent rainfall, without allowing the soil to dry out completely.
How Much Light Does Red-cracking Bolete Need?
Prefers shaded areas in deciduous or coniferous forests, avoiding direct sunlight.
What Is the Best Soil for Red-cracking Bolete?
The soil should be rich in humus, acidic, and constantly moist.
What Pot Should You Use for Red-cracking Bolete?
Not suitable for pots; requires natural forest soil with mycorrhiza.
Care Schedule
Misting
Every 1 days
What Is Red-cracking Bolete and Where Does It Come From?
Xerocomellus chrysenteron, commonly known as the red-cracking bolete, is a common edible mushroom characterized by its velvety, brown cap that cracks at maturity to reveal a reddish subcutaneous layer. The pores are yellow, turning greenish-blue when bruised, and the stem is often tinted with ruby red.
How to Propagate Red-cracking Bolete?
Spore dispersal
- Requires a very humid environment
- Success depends on the health of the host tree
- 1 Spore collection
Leave a mature cap on a piece of paper to collect the spore dust.
- 2 Suspension preparation
Mix the spores with rainwater and a small amount of sugar or salt.
- 3 Inoculation
Pour the mixture at the roots of host trees (oak, beech, or pine).
Materials needed:
How Big Does Red-cracking Bolete Grow?
TLDR: Red-cracking Bolete can reach up to 10cm tall with Fast growth rate.
Max height
10cm
Spread
8cm
Growth rate
Fast
Plant Uses
Edible
Can be consumed
Culinary Uses
- Fresh consumption in stews
- Drying for flavor enhancement
- Pan-searing with butter
Is your plant showing symptoms?
Click on the symptom to discover possible causes:
Meaning & Symbolism
Represents the resilience of nature and the interconnectivity of the forest through mycelial networks.
Compare with similar plants
| Attribute | Difficulty | Light | Watering | Pet Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dark Fieldcap | Medium | Low light | 2d | ⚠️ |
| Azalea | Medium | Partial shade | 3d | ⚠️ |
| Muriel's Bamboo | Medium | Partial shade | 3d | ✓ |
| Bougainvillea | Medium | Direct sun | 7d | ⚠️ |
