Death Cap vs Charcoal Burner
Amanita phalloides and Russula cyanoxantha 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.
The one Russula with flexible, greasy gills that do not shatter. Mild-tasting and excellent.
Side by side
| Amanita phalloides | Russula cyanoxantha | |
|---|---|---|
| In this game | Poisonous | Edible |
| Habitat | Broadleaf woodland, mycorrhizal with oak, beech and chestnut; also under planted oaks in parks. | Broadleaf woodland, mycorrhizal with beech and oak. |
| 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 Destroying Angel, Horse Mushroom and Field Mushroom.
Russula cyanoxantha is also confused with The Sickener.
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