Home > Jack-o'lantern mushroom

Jack-o'lantern mushroom

Omphalotus illudens

A species of Omphalotus, Also known as Eastern jack-o'lantern

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!

Cap Diameter:

5 - 25 cm

Odor:

Mild, generally not distinctive.

General Info About Jack-o'lantern mushroom

Instantly identify mushrooms with a snap

Snap a photo for instant mushroom ID and risk assessment, gaining quick insights on edible guidelines, toxicity, medical value, habitat, culture, and foraging techniques, etc.

Download the App for Free

Attributes of Jack-o'lantern mushroom

Cap Diameter

5 - 25 cm

Height

5 - 20 cm

Cap

Cap 3 - 20 cm across; convex to flat to shallowly funnel-shaped; bright orange to orange-tan; surface smooth; margin inrolled

Cap Shape

Convex, Flat, Depressed, Central Bump

Cap Surfaces

Smooth

Gills

Decurrent; close, crowded; bright orange to pale orange

Gill Attachment

Decurrent

Stem

Stem 3 - 13 cm long, 1 - 2 cm thick; orange; surface smooth but fibrous

Stem Shapes

Tapering

Stem Surfaces

Smooth

Flesh

Pale orange; unchanging when sliced

Ring

Ringless

Spore Print Color

Creamy white

Odor

Mild, generally not distinctive.

Body Color

Yellow

Orange

Flesh Bruises

The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.

Growth Form

Gregarious, Clustered

Nutrient Gathering

Saprophytic

Substrate

Dead Woods

Occurence Habitats

Deciduous Woodland

Species Status

Widely distributed

Endangered Species

How to Identify Jack-o'lantern mushroom

Fruiting Body Immature Fruiting Body Cap

AI mushroom expert in your pocket

Habitat of Jack-o'lantern mushroom

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.

Distribution Area of Jack-o'lantern mushroom

Eastern North America,Europe

Scientific Classification of Jack-o'lantern mushroom

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Gilled fungi

Family

Marasmiaceae

Genus

Omphalotus

Toxicity and Edibility of Jack-o'lantern mushroom

Mastering Mushroom Toxicity and Edibility

Unlock the Secrets of Mushroom Varieties, Edibility, Toxicity, and Safety Tips!

Download the App for Free

Is Jack-o'lantern mushroom Toxic?

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.

Is Jack-o'lantern mushroom Toxic to Dogs?

Jack-o'lantern mushroom is mildly toxic to dogs due to the presence of illudin and muscarine. Ingestion results in gastrointestinal discomfort which typically manifests by nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Seek veterinary assistance if your dog exhibits these symptoms after eating this or any mushroom. Jack-o'lantern mushroom is faintly bioluminescent, which may attract dogs. This mushroom is also toxic to cats.

Similar Species to Jack-o'lantern mushroom

Unlocking the Secrets of Identifying Many Types of Mushroom

Master the Art of Distinguishing Mushroom Varieties with Expert Tips.

Download the App for Free

Tips for Finding Jack-o'lantern mushroom

Your Ultimate Guide to Understanding Mushrooms

Explore the Ins and Outs of Mushroom Hunting: Timing, Optimal Soil Conditions, and More Tips!

Download the App for Free

What are Some Tips for Finding Jack-o'lantern mushroom

Search around the base of live or dead oak trees, especially around stumps or exposed roots.
Inspect large wooded areas or parks where oak trees are common, looking closely at the ground.
Look for bright bioluminescence, which makes jack-o'lantern mushroom easier to locate in very dim light or at night.
Check for large, clustered groups of mushrooms, which is a characteristic growth pattern of jack-o'lantern mushroom.
Investigate areas where fallen oak timber or debris collect, as these may harbor buried roots where jack-o'lantern mushroom might grow.