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.
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.
Field marks recorded for this species. Work through all of them, not just one:
| Family | Tricholomataceae |
|---|---|
| Genus | Clitocybe |
| Edibility | Poisonous — do not consume |
| Toxicity | high |
| Season | Aug-Oct |
| Habitat | Typically found in grassy areas, woodlands, and near decaying organic matter. |
| Region | Commonly found in Europe and North America. |
Habitat: Typically found in grassy areas, woodlands, and near decaying organic matter.
Region: Commonly found in Europe and North America.
Fruits primarily in late summer to early autumn.
Typical months: Aug-Oct
Always verify identification to avoid these similar species. The differentiator is the point — learn the one or two tells that separate them:
has a more pronounced ribbed cap and a stronger odor
has a milky latex when cut and a different gill structure
has a ring on the stem and a more robust appearance
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.
Download Mushroom TrackerDisclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only. Never consume a wild mushroom unless you are 100% certain of its identification.