How to identify Lysurus mokusin

To correctly identify Lysurus mokusin (Lysurus mokusin), 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.

   N/A (Gleba on arms)

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   Absent

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   Reddish, wrinkled, hollow, and spongy.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   Spongy

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   Reddish stalk with arms joined at the top, covered in dark olive-brown slime.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Gardens, lawns, disturbed ground, near decaying wood.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

N/A

Growth Form

Stalk with arms

Spore Print

Olive-brown

Body color

Reddish stalk, dark olive-brown gleba

Odor

Foul, carrion-like

Flesh bruises

No bruising

Height

5-15 cm

Cap Diameter

N/A

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: N/A (Gleba)
• Stem shape: Cylindrical
• Stem surface: Wrinkled
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: Hollow

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