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Amanita multisquamosa, commonly known as the American starfoot, is a species of fungus in the family Amanitaceae. It is characterized by its white to cream-colored cap covered with numerous small, pointed scales, and a stem that has a bulbous base adorned with star-like remnants of the volva. This mushroom is found in North America, typically in wooded areas during the summer and fall.
How to Identify
- Cap
- White to cream-colored, convex to flattened, covered with numerous small, pointed scales.
- Gills
- White, free from the stem, closely spaced.
- Stem
- White, with a bulbous base and star-like remnants of the volva.
- Flesh
- White, unchanging when cut.
- Fruiting body
- Medium to large size, with a distinctive scaled cap and star-like volva at the stem base.
- Habitat
- Wooded areas, often near deciduous trees.
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: Covered with numerous small, pointed scales
- Growth Form: Solitary to scattered
- Spore Print: White
- Body color: White to cream
- Odor: Mild, not distinctive
- Flesh bruises: Does not bruise
- Height: 10-20 cm
- Cap Diameter: 5-15 cm
- Nutrient gathering: Mycorrhizal
Toxic
Mild ToxicityWhile not considered deadly, Amanita multisquamosa can cause gastrointestinal upset in some individuals. It is important to avoid consuming this mushroom.
Quick Check
- Odor: Mild
- Fruiting: Summer to Fall
- Substrate: Soil in wooded areas
Where to Find
Forests
Wooded areas, particularly those with deciduous trees.
Moist Soil
Prefers moist soil conditions.
Finding Tips
Cap Appearance
Look for mushrooms with white to cream-colored caps covered in small scales.
Stem Base
Check for a bulbous stem base with star-like volval remnants.
Seasonal Timing
Search in wooded areas during the summer and fall months.
Similar Species
Chlorophyllum molybdites
mushroom
Also known as: False Parasol
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Basidiomycota
- Class
- Agaricomycetes
- Order
- Agaricales
- Family
- Amanitaceae
- Genus
- Amanita
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