The sickener
A species of Russulas, Also known as Vomiting russula Scientific name : Russula emetica Genus : Russulas
The sickener, A species of Russulas
Also known as:
Vomiting russula
Scientific name: Russula emetica
Genus: Russulas
Photo By peupleloup , used under CC-BY-SA-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
The sickener (Russula emetica) is a red-capped russula with a reputation that backs up its common name. Also known as a "vomiting russula", the species causes severe gastrointestinal distress when eaten. The sickener has a very brittle cap and a strong, peppery or spicy flavor, which may help distinguish it from edible species.
Colors
Red
White
Habitat
The sickener commonly grows in wet, mossy woods, mainly beneath pines and spruce. It grows on the ground, in duff under its host tree, but unlike many Russula species, it occasionally grows on well-rotten wood.
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People often ask
General Info
Toxicity
The sickener is a toxic mushroom species. If consumed, it can induce severe gastrointestinal distress characterized by nausea, vomiting, stomach pains, and eventually, diarrhea. While fatalities are rare, the symptoms can be particularly severe in frail, immune-compromised individuals and young children. Although often found beneath conifers and mossy heathland, its attractive habitat should not dilute awareness of its toxicity.
Habitat
The sickener commonly grows in wet, mossy woods, mainly beneath pines and spruce. It grows on the ground, in duff under its host tree, but unlike many Russula species, it occasionally grows on well-rotten wood.
Growth Form
Solitary, gregarious
Sporocarp Height
4 inches
Cap Diameter
4 inches
Endangered Species
No
Habit
Mycorrhizal
Substrate
On soil
Smell
Very hot
Spore Print
White to very pale cream
Species Status
Widely distributed
Distribution Area
North America,Europe,North Africa,Central America,northern Asia
How to identify it?
Similar Species
Photo By peupleloup , used under CC-BY-SA-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Club fungi Class
Mushroom-forming fungi Order
Russulales Family
Russulaceae Genus
Russulas Species
The sickener