Species related to Lactarius pyrogalus (Bull. ex Fr.) Fr. are, in the author’s opinion, incorrectly interpreted at present. According to Fries’ original description in "Systema mycologicum," the hazel-associated species should be called Lactarius hortensis Velen., while the hornbeam or beech-associated taxon fits Lactarius pyrogalus. The author rehabilitates Lactarius adscitus Britzelm. as a species with large spores and describes new varieties of both L. hortensis and L. pyrogalus. Also, Lactarius spinosulus Quél. is included for its similar spore ornamentation and pileus characteristics.
Schaefer Z. (1972): Die Gruppe Lactarius pyrogalus (Bull. ex Fr.) Fr., Stirps Pyrogalus. – Česká Mykologie 26(3): 141–148.
