2/5/2026 - The NC State University research truffle orchard, located on the Mountain Research Station in Waynesville, NC, was originally established to cultivate the European Périgord black truffle, Tuber melanosporum. Since the onset of production on November 20, 2017 in early 2023, the research team has documented the presence of two additional truffle species: the European Tuber aestivum (summer truffle) and, most recently, Tuber canaliculatum, a native North American truffle species commonly known as the Appalachian truffle.
The Appalachian truffle was unearthed by Petra Vasilik and her trained truffle dog, Rosi, on November 17, 2025. Species confirmation was performed by Dr. Matthew Smith and his postdoctoral student and fellow mycologist, Alassane Sow, at the University of Florida.
The presence of multiple truffle species expands the orchard’s harvest season. Harvest now begins as early as May, beginning with Tuber aestivum (summer truffle), continuing through November with Tuber canaliculatum (the Appalachian truffle), then extending into the winter months, concluding in February with Tuber melanosporum (the Black Périgord truffle). This extended harvest window increases market opportunities for truffle growers, chefs, and specialty food enthusiasts.
This discovery highlights the role of research-driven agriculture, and we are so excited to share it with you!
