 Lactarius deterrimus belongs to the section Deliciosi of the genus Lactarius . According to molecular phylogenetics studies , this section forms a definite phylogenetic group within the milk cap relatives . Deliciosi species mainly have an orange or reddish @-@ coloured latex and taste mild to slightly bitter . They are strict mycorrhizal associates of conifers . The next closest relative of L. deterrimus is L. fennoscandicus . 
