How to identify American Starfoot

To correctly identify American Starfoot (Amanita multisquamosa), 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.

   White to cream-colored, convex to flattened, covered with numerous small, pointed scales.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   White, free from the stem, closely spaced.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   White, with a bulbous base and star-like remnants of the volva.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   White, unchanging when cut.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   Medium to large size, with a distinctive scaled cap and star-like volva at the stem base.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   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

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Free
• Stem shape: Cylindrical, tapering towards the cap
• Stem surface: Smooth to slightly scaly
• Ring: Present, often fragile
• Stem cross-section: Solid

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