The flesh reddens and then blackens when potassium hydroxide solution is applied. The solution reddens litmus and is an astringent. The thick flesh reddens on bruising or cutting, and smells somewhat like unripe fruit. The tincture reddens infusion of litmus, and precipitates on the addition of water. The pelt is generally of a grey-fulvous colour, which reddens in summer. It is white in color but reddens with maturity or after being handled.