![](/wiki-static/name/a4119999746f4ab49c83ebb69ac0e9df/website/img/icon/icon_search@2x.png)
Jack-o'lantern mushroom
A species of Omphalotus, Also known as Eastern jack-o'lantern Scientific name : Omphalotus illudens Genus : Omphalotus
Jack-o'lantern mushroom, A species of Omphalotus
Also known as:
Eastern jack-o'lantern
Scientific name: Omphalotus illudens
Genus: Omphalotus
![Jack-o'lantern mushroom (Omphalotus illudens)](/wiki-image/1080/153461672609054744.jpeg)
![](/wiki-static/name/a4119999746f4ab49c83ebb69ac0e9df/website/img/icon/field_icons/icon_description@3x.png)
Description
![](/wiki-static/name/a4119999746f4ab49c83ebb69ac0e9df/website/img/icon/icon_arrow_description@3x.png)
The jack-o'lantern mushroom is so-called because of its bright orange color, and because it often appears in the fall (usually before Halloween, though). This vibrant little mushroom can be found growing on decaying hardwood stumps and logs. The species does have some superficial resemblances to the highly edible chanterelle (Cantharellus cibarius), but it is toxic and should be avoided!
Colors
Yellow
Orange
Habitat
The jack-o'lantern mushroom is commonly found in forests. It is associated with both conifers and deciduous species, growing on dead stumps or decaying underground roots.
* Disclaimer: Content feedback CAN NOT be used as any basis for EATING ANY PLANTS. Some plants can be VERY POISONOUS, please purchase edible plants through regular channels.
![](/wiki-static/name/a4119999746f4ab49c83ebb69ac0e9df/website/img/icon/pic_download@3x.png)
![](/wiki-static/name/a4119999746f4ab49c83ebb69ac0e9df/website/img/icon/field_icons/icon_question_spieces@3x.png)
People often ask
![](/wiki-static/name/a4119999746f4ab49c83ebb69ac0e9df/website/img/icon/icon_arrow_description@3x.png)
![](/wiki-static/name/a4119999746f4ab49c83ebb69ac0e9df/website/img/icon/field_icons/icon_general_spieces@3x.png)
General Info
![](/wiki-static/name/a4119999746f4ab49c83ebb69ac0e9df/website/img/icon/icon_arrow_description@3x.png)
Toxicity
The jack-o'lantern mushroom is a highly toxic mushroom that causes severe gastrointestinal problems and profuse sweating. These symptoms can last for several days. Inexperienced mushroom hunters often mistake the jack-o'lantern mushroom for edible Chanterelles.
Habitat
The jack-o'lantern mushroom is commonly found in forests. It is associated with both conifers and deciduous species, growing on dead stumps or decaying underground roots.
Growth Form
Saprobic; clustered
Sporocarp Height
8 inches
Cap Diameter
8 inches
Endangered Species
No
Habit
Parasitic
Substrate
On wood
Smell
Not distinctive
Spore Print
Creamy white
Species Status
Widely distributed
Distribution Area
Eastern North America,Europe
![](/wiki-static/name/a4119999746f4ab49c83ebb69ac0e9df/website/img/icon/field_icons/icon_How to identify@2x.png)
How to identify it?
![](/wiki-static/name/a4119999746f4ab49c83ebb69ac0e9df/website/img/icon/icon_arrow_description@3x.png)
![](/wiki-static/name/a4119999746f4ab49c83ebb69ac0e9df/website/img/icon/field_icons/icon_Similar Species@2x.png)
Similar Species
![](/wiki-static/name/a4119999746f4ab49c83ebb69ac0e9df/website/img/icon/icon_arrow_description@3x.png)
![](/wiki-static/name/a4119999746f4ab49c83ebb69ac0e9df/website/img/icon/field_icons/icon_scientific_spieces@2x.png)
Scientific Classification
![](/wiki-static/name/a4119999746f4ab49c83ebb69ac0e9df/website/img/icon/icon_arrow_description@3x.png)
Phylum
Club fungi Class
Mushroom-forming fungi Order
Gilled fungi Family
Marasmiaceae Genus
Omphalotus Species
Jack-o'lantern mushroom