About Truffles

To print out information about truffles click here.

Truffles are the fruiting body of a ectomycorrihizal fungus, meaning that they infect the roots of host trees. While they have been harvested in the wild for centuries, declining production has led to a truffle cultivation industry through the use of planting young trees infected with the truffle fungus on its roots. After planting, production of the truffle may take 7-10 years but this production cannot be guaranteed.
There are a number of different species with differing flavour, aroma and commercial value. The most famous of these is the Périgord black truffle.

Types of Truffle

1. Périgord Black Truffle (Tuber melanosporum )
2. Bianchetto or whitish truffle (Tuber borchii)
3. Italian White Truffle (Tuber magnatum)
4. Chinese Truffle (Tuber sinensis or Tuber indicum)
5. Black Summer Truffle (Tuber aestivum/unicinatum)
6. Winter Truffle (Tuber brumale)

Worldwide

The Périgord black truffle (Tuber melanosporum) is named after the Périgord region in France. Click here for more info.

New Zealand

The New Zealand truffle industry was pioneered by Dr Ian Hall, Alan Hall’s brother, in the mid 1980’s. Click here for more info.

Why become involved in the truffle industry?

Deciding to become a Truffière should not be a decision taken lightly. Click here for more info.