The golden bootleg (Phaeolepiota aurea) is memorable in both name and appearance. The species, the only one in its genus, has a large, sturdy stalk and a sizable cap, both of which are usually gold or marigold in hue. Once considered edible, sufficient evidence of sickness has accumulated over the years to prove it inedible and better left in the ground.
Cap Diameter:
7 - 30 cm
Odor:
Similar to bitter almonds.
In This Article
Attributes
Toxicity and Edibility
Similar Species
Tips for Finding
Clean and Preserve
Common Questions
General Info About Golden bootleg
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Attributes of Golden bootleg
Cap Diameter
7 - 30 cm
Height
12 - 25 cm
Cap
Cap 8 - 30 cm; convex to conical, flat; ocher-yellow to tan, pale; granular, becoming smooth; with a fringed margin
Cap Shape
Convex, Flat, Central Bump
Cap Surfaces
Fibrillose-scaly
Gills
Adnate; crowded; yellowish to tawny-yellow
Gill Attachment
Attached
Stem
Stem 10 - 20 cm tall, 2 - 3 cm across; lighter in colour than the cap, or coloured like cap; above the ring, smooth and glossy
Stem Shapes
Club Shaped
Stem Surfaces
Smooth
Flesh
When cut, the light yellow stem flesh gradually darkens
Ring
Skirt-like
Ring
With Ring
Spore Print Color
Light ocher to yellow-brown
Odor
Similar to bitter almonds.
Body Color
Yellow
Gold
Flesh Bruises
The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.
The golden bootleg commonly appears in disturbed woodland areas: along roads, paths, and trails. It grows in rich humus soil under its host tree, often growing together with nettles (Urtica spp.).
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Is Golden bootleg Toxic?
Golden bootleg is a mushroom typically found in varied habitats during specific seasons. Its toxicity causes gastrointestinal distress, with effects ranging from mild discomfort to severe reactions like hyperventilation and, potentially, fatal respiratory or cardiac arrest. Golden bootleg's distinct morphology aids identification and differentiates it from non-toxic species.
Type of poisoning
Gastrointestinal
Toxic Severity
Low to high toxicity
Incubation Period
0.5-2 hours
Poisoning Symptoms
Symptoms can range from mild gastrointestinal distress, including discomfort and other issues, to severe reactions like hyperventilation, loss of consciousness, and potentially fatal respiratory or cardiac arrest.
Is Golden bootleg Toxic to Dogs?
Golden bootleg contains hydrocyanic acid, a substance poisonous to dogs that causes symptoms such as gastric distress, eye discharge, and difficulty of breathing. Call your vet immediately if these symptoms occur. Note that the rarity of this mushroom makes it unlikely that dogs will encounter it.
Similar Species to Golden bootleg
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Tips for Finding Golden bootleg
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What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Golden bootleg
Rich, recently disturbed soils.
What are Some Tips for Finding Golden bootleg
Scout for areas with a mix of leafy and coniferous trees, as golden bootleg often reside in such mixed surroundings.
Inspect recently disturbed grounds, especially where the soil looks fertile and overturned.
Search in the vicinity of nettle patches, which are common neighbors to golden bootleg.
Examine woodland borders, where these mushrooms may be more likely to colonize.
Use a gentle touch when exploring to avoid damaging the fragile fruiting bodies of golden bootleg.
How to Clean and Preserve Golden bootleg
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Common Questions People Also Ask
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