How to identify Dyer's Mazegill

To correctly identify Dyer's Mazegill (Phaeolus schweinitzii), 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 kidney-shaped or irregular, with a velvety surface. The color ranges from yellow-brown to dark brown, often with concentric zones of color.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   The pore surface is yellowish to brownish, bruising darker when handled. The pores are angular and irregular, often maze-like.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   The stem is usually absent or very short and stubby. When present, it is lateral and similar in color to the cap.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is thick and fibrous, with a reddish-brown color.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   The fruit body is an annual, fleshy to corky bracket fungus. It can be up to 25 cm (10 in) in diameter and 5 cm (2 in) thick.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Phaeolus schweinitzii is found on the roots and lower trunks of coniferous trees, especially pines and Douglas-fir. It causes a brown rot, which weakens the wood and can lead to tree death.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Velvety, zoned

Growth Form

Bracket

Spore Print

White to yellowish

Body color

Yellow-brown to dark brown

Odor

Fruity or acidic

Flesh bruises

Darker brown

Height

Up to 5 cm thick

Cap Diameter

Up to 25 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Pores, decurrent
• Stem shape: Absent or stubby
• Stem surface: Velvety
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: N/A

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