In March 2022, a hiker’s body was discovered in a river in Washington State after she and a friend allegedly consumed psychedelic mushrooms while on the Wallace Falls Trail. Alisonstar Molaf is one of thousands of victims who suffer life-threatening consequences—or even death—after ingesting mushrooms. In 2019 alone, there were over 5,700 reported cases of mushroom poisoning (mycetism) in the United States, two of which were fatal.
Most cases of mushroom poisoning occur because some toxic mushrooms closely resemble edible varieties, making them easy to misidentify. While many mushrooms are safe and nutritious, foraging in the wild demands caution. Before consuming any mushroom found in nature, it is essential to ensure it is not toxic. Below are ten of the most dangerous mushrooms to avoid at all costs.
Death Cap (Amanita phalloides)
The Death Cap is infamous as the world’s most poisonous mushroom. Originally found under oak trees in Europe, this lethal fungus can now be found globally, thanks to the importation of trees. It belongs to the Amanita genus, which includes the edible Asian Straw Mushroom, leading to frequent confusion.
Even a small amount of Amanitin, the toxin in Death Caps, can cause fatal liver and kidney failure. While some claim it has a bitter taste, many victims describe it as the most delicious mushroom they’ve ever eaten—until symptoms like cramping and vomiting begin. Be especially wary of any mushroom resembling a Death Cap that grows near oak trees or appears unfamiliar in your region.
Deadly Webcap (Cortinarius rubellus)
The Deadly Webcap contains the toxin Orellanine, which may not manifest symptoms for two days to three weeks after ingestion, making it especially treacherous. Once symptoms do appear, kidney failure is almost inevitable without prompt treatment.
Found in coniferous woodlands, these brown mushrooms were once thought to be confined to Northern Europe but have since been discovered as far south as the UK. They can easily be mistaken for edible chanterelles, making identification vital for foragers.
Destroying Angel (Amanita bisporigera)
A cousin to the Death Cap, the Destroying Angel’s all-white appearance often leads to confusion with edible button mushrooms. Found in Europe, Canada, and the US, it contains Amanitins, which can cause liver and kidney failure within 24 hours of ingestion.
One distinguishing feature is the “chalice of death”—a sac-like structure at the base of its stem. However, this feature is often left behind in the soil when the mushroom is picked, making it harder to identify.
Fool’s Mushroom (Amanita verna)
The Fool’s Mushroom is another highly toxic member of the Amanita family. Common in Europe, it is often mistaken for field mushrooms due to its white cap and stem. However, its tell-tale volva at the base of the stem makes it identifiable for those who know what to look for. Though rare in North America, it remains one of the deadliest mushrooms globally.
Little White (Trogia venetata)
Once a staple in Central and Southern China, this small white mushroom was linked to “Yunnan sudden death syndrome,” responsible for over 260 deaths between the 1980s and 2010. Its toxicity stems from a combination of three deadly compounds, including amino acids and organic acids.
This fungus, resembling delicate white flower petals, grows on decaying wood and is no longer consumed following public awareness campaigns.
Deadly Fibrecap (Inocybe erubescens)
Native to the UK and continental Europe, the Deadly Fibrecap is easily mistaken for the edible St George’s Mushroom. It contains muscarine, a potent toxin, and even a single mushroom can prove fatal.
Foragers can identify the Deadly Fibrecap by its fibrous texture and the red staining that appears on its gills, stem, and cap when bruised.
California Deathcap (Conocybe filaris)
Known as the “little brown killer,” this lawn-dwelling mushroom is as deadly as the Death Cap, thanks to its Amanitin content. Found primarily in the Pacific Northwest of the US, it has a small brown cap, rusty gills, and a movable ring on its stem. Its limited range has spared it from causing widespread fatalities.
Autumn Skullcap (Galerina marginata)
Also called the “funeral bell,” the Autumn Skullcap is a tiny yellow-brown mushroom containing Amanitins. Found across the Northern Hemisphere and parts of Australia, it can cause liver failure within 24 hours of ingestion. Its resemblance to edible varieties like velvet foot makes it a hazard for foragers.
Panther Cap (Amanita pantherina)
This Amanita relative of the Death Cap is found in Europe and Asia and is easily confused with the edible Blusher mushroom. The key difference lies in bruising—Panther Caps do not turn pink or red when bruised. Like its relatives, it can cause severe liver damage and death within a day.
Deadly Dapperling (Lepiota brunneoincarnata)
Responsible for a major poisoning outbreak in Iran in 2018, the Deadly Dapperling has also been found in Europe and Asia. This autumnal mushroom grows on decaying organic matter and is often mistaken for edible Grey Knight mushrooms or ringed champignons. Look for greyish scales on its cap to differentiate it from its safer counterparts.
Have you come across any of these mushrooms in the wild? Are there other poisonous varieties you think should make the list? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and remember: when in doubt, leave it out!
