This species is recorded as poisonous. Do not consume. Consumption can cause gastrointestinal distress; avoid harvesting unless positively identified.
Omphalotus illudens is a bright orange to yellow mushroom that often grows in clusters. It features a funnel-shaped cap with a wavy margin and is known for its bioluminescent properties in decaying wood.
Field marks recorded for this species. Work through all of them, not just one:
| Family | Omphalotaceae |
|---|---|
| Genus | Omphalotus |
| Edibility | Poisonous — do not consume |
| Toxicity | medium |
| Season | Aug-Nov |
| Habitat | Typically found on decaying wood, particularly hardwoods. |
| Region | North America, particularly in the eastern United States. |
Habitat: Typically found on decaying wood, particularly hardwoods.
Region: North America, particularly in the eastern United States.
Fruits from late summer to fall.
Typical months: Aug-Nov
Always verify identification to avoid these similar species. The differentiator is the point — learn the one or two tells that separate them:
Chanterelles have a more trumpet-like shape and do not have true gills.
Similar color but has a more distinct, non-funnel shape and lacks bioluminescence.
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.