Neoporphyrellus alboater had been called Tylopilus alboater for a very long time. Index Fungorum lists several synonyms. Likes oak woods. Fairly common in Southern Indiana (lots of oak trees). A distinctive mushroom with its jet black, velvety cap and contrasting snow white pore surface that bruises pink; that’s if you find a nice fresh one. Colors change with age. Pink spore print.

If you can find some fresh black velvet boletes (not easy) they are an exceptional edible. I have eaten them and label them as choice. Fry up some slices nice and crispy and throw on top of a steak or add to a veggie stir fry. Dried slices would make a great cream sauce/soup or add some earthy flavor to a pot roast.

• Index Fungorum lists several synonyms
• Tylopilus alboater at MushroomExpert.Com
• Global diversity of the Tylopilus alboater complex, NIH