Death Cap vs Destroying Angel
Amanita phalloides and Amanita virosa are confused for one another often enough to be worth putting next to each other.
The deadliest mushroom in the world — responsible for most fatal poisonings. Amatoxins destroy the liver, and symptoms are delayed 6–24 hours.
Pure white and deadly. Same amatoxins as the Death Cap; a single cap can kill an adult.
Side by side
| Amanita phalloides | Amanita virosa | |
|---|---|---|
| In this game | Poisonous | Poisonous |
| Habitat | Broadleaf woodland, mycorrhizal with oak, beech and chestnut; also under planted oaks in parks. | Damp broadleaf and mixed woodland on acid soil, often with birch. |
| Season | Late summer to late autumn. | Summer to autumn. |
| Spore print | White. | White. |
This comparison cannot make a mushroom safe to eat. It sets out the few characteristics this game records, in general terms, for two species that vary by region, age and growing conditions. Real specimens overlap in ways no table and no photograph can separate, and the deadly one here is deadly in a single meal. Ask a qualified local expert, every time.
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Amanita phalloides is also confused with Horse Mushroom, Field Mushroom and Charcoal Burner.
Amanita virosa is also confused with Horse Mushroom and Parasol Mushroom.
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