Aureoboletus projectellus, also known as the Long-stemmed Bolete, is a striking mushroom recognised by its tall, reticulated stem and warm brown cap. Commonly found in pine forests, especially along the eastern parts of North America, this bolete forms mycorrhizal relationships with pine trees, aiding their growth while thriving on forest floors. In recent years, it has also become established as an invasive species in parts of Europe.

Cap initially convex, gradually flattening as the mushroom matures. When young, the cap surface is dry with a velvety or slightly hairy feel, but with age it often cracks into small patches. The margin typically develops an overhanging, sterile portion projecting 1–3 mm. In terms of colour, young specimens range from pale to deep cinnamon-brown, sometimes showing dull reddish or dark reddish-brown shades, and may even carry hints of grey or olive-green, especially in fresher examples. The flesh inside is whitish, occasionally displaying rosy tones, with no notable scent and a distinctly acidic taste. Unlike many other bolete species, it does not stain blue when cut or bruised, but instead slowly shifts to a yellow-brown colour. Pore surface pale yellow when young, gradually becoming brownish-olive as the mushroom matures. Stem usually even in thickness or may have a slightly swollen base. At first, it shows shallow, lengthwise ridges, which become wider and prominently reticulate as the mushroom matures. When fresh, the stem is slightly sticky to the touch. Its colour varies from pinkish brown to brown. The mushroom has no ring. Spore print olive-brown.

Microscopic Features: The spores are smooth, oval to spindle-shaped, and typically measure 18–33 μm in length and 7.5–12 μm in width.

Synonyms: Boletus projectellus, Boletellus projectellus, and Ceriomyces projectellus are synonyms.

Aureoboletus projectellus on the MushroomExpert.Com web site.