Truffle
a genus of fungi of the order Tuberacei, division Ascomycetes; globose, or nearly so; of a fleshy substance, with a distinct skin, the whole substance pervaded by a network of serpentine veins, which are the hymenium, and bear the spore-cases in minute cavities. The species are not numerous; they are very generally diffused in temperate parts of the world; they are subterranean, often found at the depth of a foot or more in the soil, usually near the roots of trees, or rarely living on the surface.
Some of them are among the most highly valued or esculent fungi. They are said to have a stimulating aphrodisiacal quality. The common truffle (T. æstivum) is of a black color, and has a warty surface. It is the principal spea TRUMBULL cies sold in the English markets. It varies in size from that of a large plum to that of a large potato. On account of its agreeable flavor, it is used in the preparation of many dishes. It is common in central and southern Europe, chiefly in loose soils, in woods and pastures, as in the chestnut woods of France and Italy.