Truffles grow on the roots of truffle oaks, often less than 30 cm below the surface. To date, no one has been able to cultivate truffles: they grow randomly in certain regions (44 – 46 degrees north latitude). The more truffle oak seedlings are planted, the more chances exist for harvesting some.

Since truffles cannot be seen, specially trained sows and dogs are employed to find the elusive tubers, Sows love to eat them and have a keen sense of smell, but because of their size, transportation tends to be cumbersome, also once they start digging, it is difficult to stop them to retrieve the truffle. Many "hunters" prefer specially trained dogs that are easier to control.

The size of the truffle varies considerably ranging from 10 grams (1/3 oz) to 100 grams (3 ½ oz). Large truffles cost more because they are rare. Truffle oaks thrive on soil rich in limestone, with good drainage.