The cap is rounded and sticky when wet, and variable in colour from pale to dark brown or reddish brown or greyish, often with paler margin.  The pores are initially white, becoming greenish-yellow.   The stem is often fat and swollen, pale brown or whitish, with a white net-like reticulation that is most evident at the top.   The pores and flesh do not stain blue when cut or bruised.

Depending on the host tree, this species is very variable in form and colour, it may be a species complex.  A paler form found under Birch is given the name Boletus reticulata by some authors.  [See Kibby, 2017. British Boletes with keys to species.]

The Bay Bolete Imleria badius can be similar, but does not have a reticulate (net-like) pattern on the stipe and the pores quickly stain blue when bruised.  There are several other Boletus species with pale non-staining pores. 

Photograph a fresh specimen from top down and in side view, and underneath to show pores and full length of stipe.  Note habitat and substrate. Check for staining on cap and pores when bruised.  We also recommend cutting vertically through cap and stem to show flesh colour and any staining. 

Broadleaved and coniferous woods

June to October

Widespread and fairly common in Britain

Fairly common in Leicestershire and Rutland.