How to identify The Deceiver

To correctly identify The Deceiver (Laccaria laccata), 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 2-6 cm in diameter, convex to flattened, often with a slightly depressed center. The color ranges from pinkish-tan to reddish-brown, and the surface can be smooth to slightly scaly.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   The gills are pinkish-tan to reddish-brown, widely spaced, and attached to the stem (adnate to slightly decurrent).

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   The stem is typically 3-10 cm long and 0.5-1 cm thick, fibrous in texture, and similar in color to the cap. It often has a slightly twisted appearance.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is thin and watery, with a mild, earthy odor.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   The overall appearance is quite variable, which contributes to its name. It can appear in various shades of brown and pink.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   It grows in woodlands and forests, often among leaf litter and decaying wood. It can be found in both deciduous and coniferous forests.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Smooth to slightly scaly

Growth Form

Solitary to scattered

Spore Print

White

Body color

Pinkish-tan to reddish-brown

Odor

Mild, earthy

Flesh bruises

No significant bruising

Height

3-10 cm

Cap Diameter

2-6 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Adnate to slightly decurrent
• Stem shape: Cylindrical
• Stem surface: Fibrous
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: Solid

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