About Boletus variipes Peck
Boletus variipes Peck has a dry, tan to brown-gray cap that is broad, and ranges in shape from convex to nearly flat. The cap measures 6 to 20 centimeters (2 1/2 to 8 inches) wide, and tends to become cracked or develop fine patches when it reaches maturity. The pore surface on the underside of the cap is white when young, when the pores look "stuffed", and turns yellow then olive as spores mature. There are 1 to 2 pores per millimeter on this surface. The stipe is whitish to brown, often covered in a net-like reticulated pattern, and measures 8 to 15 cm (3 to 6 inches) long by 1 to 3.5 cm (1/2 to 1 1/2 inches) thick. The stipe can be equal in width along its length, or wider in the middle, or wider toward the base. The flesh of the mushroom does not change color when cut or bruised. The spore print of Boletus variipes is olive brown. This species is common across eastern North America, and has also been recorded in Costa Rica. It forms mycorrhizal relationships with hardwood trees, especially oaks. While it has a mild odor and mild taste, Boletus variipes is considered a choice edible mushroom.
