Golden bootleg

Phaeolepiota aurea

A species of Golden bootleg. Also known as Golden cup.

The golden bootleg (Phaeolepiota aurea) stands out for both its distinctive name and striking look. This particular species, which is the sole member of its genus, features a substantial, robust stalk and a generously sized cap, typically colored in shades of gold or marigold. While it was once thought to be safe for consumption, a growing body of evidence detailing instances of illness has since established it as inedible, making it best left undisturbed in its natural habitat.

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Attributes Classification Toxicity Similar Mushrooms

Attributes of Golden bootleg

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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
With Ring
Spore Print Color
Light ocher to yellow-brown
Odor
Similar to bitter almonds.
Body Color
YellowGold
Flesh Bruises
The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.
Growth Form
Gregarious
Nutrient Gathering
Saprophytic
Substrate
On soil
You can find Golden bootleg by these plants
Spruces, European beech
Occurence Habitats
Deciduous Woodland, Coniferous Woodland, Disturbed Lands
Species Status
Throughout North America and Eurasia
Endangered Species
No

Scientific Classification of Golden bootleg

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Phylum
Club fungi
Class
Mushroom-forming fungi
Order
Gilled fungi
Family
Agaricaceae
Genus
Golden bootleg
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Toxicity and Edibility of Golden bootleg

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Is Golden bootleg Toxic?

The Golden bootleg mushroom, recognized by its unique physical characteristics, commonly thrives in diverse environments during particular times of the year. Ingestion of this fungus leads to gastrointestinal issues, spanning from minor unease to serious symptoms such as rapid breathing and, in extreme cases, life-threatening respiratory or heart failure. Its distinct appearance is crucial for distinguishing it from edible mushroom varieties.

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.

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