How to identify Deadly Dapperling

To correctly identify Deadly Dapperling (Lepiota brunneoincarnata), 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.

   Cap is convex to flattened, with brownish scales on a lighter background. The center is usually darker brown.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   White to cream, free from the stem.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   The stem is slender, smooth to slightly scaly, with a fragile ring.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   White, may turn slightly reddish when cut.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   Small to medium-sized mushroom with a scaly cap and a ring on the stem.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Grows in grassy areas, gardens, and disturbed soil in deciduous and mixed forests.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Scaly

Growth Form

Solitary to scattered

Spore Print

White

Body color

Brownish scales on a lighter background

Odor

Unpleasant, sometimes described as fruity or spermatic

Flesh bruises

Slightly reddish

Height

4-10 cm

Cap Diameter

3-8 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Free
• Stem shape: Cylindrical
• Stem surface: Smooth to slightly scaly
• Ring: Present, fragile
• Stem cross-section: Hollow

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