One Of The World S Deadliest Mushrooms Grows In Texas

If you’ve ever considered foraging wild mushrooms to use in the kitchen, think again. One of the world’s most toxic mushrooms grows right here in Texas, and it’s easily mistaken for other edible varieties.

Amanita phalloides, more commonly known as the Death Cap mushroom, is among the deadliest fungi on earth - as little as half a mushroom is enough to kill an adult human.

Wikimedia Commons/Archenzo

The Death Cap contains α-amanitin, a toxin that can cause liver and kidney failure if left untreated. In fact, most fatal mushroom poisonings worldwide can be attributed to death caps.

Wikimedia Commons/Susulyka

While the Death Cap is native to Europe, it certainly hasn’t remained there. Mycologists have spotted the mushroom all over the world, introduced by the cultivation of non-native oak, chestnut, and pine trees.

Flickr/Charlie Day

Believe it or not, you can find the Death Cap right here in Texas. Among the areas it grows are the Hill Country and Piney Woods, the latter of which is pictured here (Sam Houston National Forest, to be exact).

TripAdvisor/Bob M.

One of the most dangerous things about the Death Cap is how similar it looks to a variety of edible species, including the Caesar’s mushroom and straw mushroom.

Wikimedia Commons/Holger Crisp

There is no reliable method of identification for the Death Cap. Even worse, its fatal effects aren’t reduced by cooking.

Wikimedia Commons/Holger Krisp

Death Cap mushrooms typically start appearing in the spring and remain visible aboveground through autumn. The best way to prevent accidental poisoning is to avoid foraging wild mushrooms altogether. Make sure to keep an eye on your pooch while hiking, too, as the mushrooms have a pleasant taste and are directly in a dog’s field of vision.

Wikimedia Commons/Justin Pierce

Click here to learn more about the Death Cap mushroom.