How to identify American Caesar's Mushroom

To correctly identify American Caesar's Mushroom (Amanita jacksonii), check each of these features in order. Misidentification is the most common cause of mushroom poisoning, so cross-reference multiple sources.

Step-by-step identification

1. 1

   Cap

   Shape, color, surface texture, and diameter.

   The cap is typically 5-15 cm in diameter, initially convex, then flattening out with age. It is bright red to orange-red, smooth, and has striations along the margin.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   The gills are free, closely spaced, and yellow to orange-yellow.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   The stem is 8-20 cm long and 1-2.5 cm thick, yellow to orange, and has a ring (annulus). The base of the stem has a volva, which is a remnant of the universal veil.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is white and does not change color when bruised.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   The fruiting body of Amanita jacksonii is a mushroom with a cap, gills, and a stem. It starts encased in an egg-like structure called a universal veil.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Amanita jacksonii is found in hardwood forests, often near oak trees. It fruits in the summer and fall.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Smooth, Striate Margin

Growth Form

Solitary or scattered

Spore Print

White

Body color

Red to Orange-Red Cap, Yellow Stem and Gills

Odor

Mild

Flesh bruises

No bruising

Height

8-20 cm

Cap Diameter

5-15 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Free
• Stem shape: Cylindrical
• Stem surface: Smooth
• Ring: Present
• Stem cross-section: Solid

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