peppery milkcap Lactifluus piperatus Kingdom: Fungi FEATURES Phylum: Basidiomycota The body of a fungus (mycelium) is made up of Class: Agaricomycetes strands called mycelia. The mycelium grows within Order: Russulales the soil, a dead tree or other object and is rarely seen. The fruiting body that produces spores is Family: Russulaceae generally present for only a short period of time but ILLINOIS STATUS is the most familiar part of the fungus to people. The peppery milkcap has a white cap that is either flat or common, native with a sunken center. Its smooth upper surface © James Veselenak becomes smudged with yellow-brown as it matures. The white stalk is solid and cylindrical. The cap may be six inches wide, while the stalk may attain a height of three and one-fourth inches. BEHAVIORS The peppery milkcap may be found statewide in Illinois. It grows in loose or tight clusters in forests. Unlike plants, fungi do not have roots, stems, leaves, flowers or seeds. The peppery milkcap must absorb nutrients and water from the objects it grows in. Spores are produced in summer. The spores provide a means of reproduction, dispersal and survival in poor conditions. Spore production occurs when conditions are favorable, generally with warm temperatures and ample moisture. ILLINOIS RANGE © Illinois Department of Natural Resources. 2021. Biodiversity of Illinois. Unless otherwise noted, photos and images © Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Aquatic Habitats none Woodland Habitats upland deciduous forests Prairie and Edge Habitats none © Illinois Department of Natural Resources. 2021. Biodiversity of Illinois. Unless otherwise noted, photos and images © Illinois Department of Natural Resources..