⚠️ Toxicity Warning
This species is recorded as highly toxic. Do not consume. Clitocybe dealbata is highly toxic and can cause severe gastrointestinal distress. It is crucial to avoid this mushroom and consult an expert when foraging.
Description
Clitocybe dealbata is a medium to large mushroom characterized by its white to pale yellow cap, which is often convex and becomes more flattened with age. The gills are closely spaced and white, and the stem is cylindrical and also white, often with a slightly swollen base.
Key Identification Features
Field marks recorded for this species. Work through all of them, not just one:
- Cap: White to pale yellow, convex to flat
- Gills: White, closely spaced, and free from the stem
- Stem: White, cylindrical, often swollen at the base
- Spore print: White
- Odor: Mild, sometimes described as earthy
Habitat & Distribution
Habitat: Typically found in grassy areas, woodlands, and near decaying organic matter.
Region: Commonly found in Europe and North America.
Seasonality
Fruits primarily in late summer to early autumn.
Typical months: Aug-Oct
Common Lookalikes
Always verify identification to avoid these similar species:
- Clitocybe rivulosa (poisonous) - has a more pronounced ribbed cap and a stronger odor
- Lactarius torminosus (edible) - has a milky latex when cut and a different gill structure
- Armillaria mellea (edible) - has a ring on the stem and a more robust appearance
Related Species
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Pin the sighting and compare this species against its lookalikes in the offline database — confusion runs both ways, and knowing where toxic species fruit makes every future ID safer. For the full picture of North America's most dangerous species, see the full poisonous mushroom guide.
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