The Enigmatic World of Poisonous Mushrooms That Grow on Trees

Mushrooms have always held a certain fascination for us. Their various shapes, sizes, and colors make them intriguing, but there’s an added layer of mystery when it comes to those that grow on trees. These enigmatic fungi are not only visually captivating but also potentially dangerous.

In this article, we’ll delve into the world of poisonous mushrooms that grow on trees, exploring their unique characteristics, the risks they pose, and how to identify them.

What Makes Tree-Growing Mushrooms Special

Tree-dwelling mushrooms, also known as “epiphytic” mushrooms, have adapted to a unique ecological niche. Unlike their ground-dwelling counterparts, they establish a symbiotic relationship with trees, often forming mycorrhizal associations. This mutualistic interaction benefits both the tree and the mushroom, allowing them to coexist in harmony.

These mushrooms exhibit a remarkable diversity in appearance, with various colors and shapes. Some tree-dwelling species are so small that they can be easily overlooked, while others are large and eye-catching.

The Attraction of Tree-Growing Mushrooms

Mushroom enthusiasts and foragers are often drawn to the world of tree-growing mushrooms for various reasons:

1. Aesthetic Appeal

The striking appearance of many tree-dwelling mushrooms makes them a sought-after subject for photographers and nature enthusiasts. The vibrant colors and unique shapes of these mushrooms add a touch of magic to the forest.

2. Ecological Significance

Mycorrhizal fungi, which include many tree-dwelling mushrooms, play a crucial role in forest ecosystems. They help trees acquire nutrients and water, promoting the overall health of the forest. Understanding these fungi is essential for forest conservation.

3. Culinary Interest

While the majority of tree-growing mushrooms are inedible or toxic, some are edible mushrooms and highly prized in certain cuisines. Recognizing and safely harvesting these mushrooms requires specialized knowledge.

The Dark Side: Poisonous Tree-Growing Mushrooms

Not all tree-dwelling mushrooms are harmless, and some can be deadly if ingested. It’s crucial to be aware of the potential risks associated with these fungi.

1. Toxic Varieties

Several tree-growing mushrooms are highly toxic, with even a small amount capable of causing severe illness or death. The Amanita phalloides, also known as the Death Cap, is one of the most infamous examples.

2. Symptoms of Poisoning

Ingesting poisonous tree-growing mushrooms can lead to a range of symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, liver and kidney failure. Prompt medical attention is essential if poisoning is suspected.

3. The Importance of Identification

Identifying tree-growing mushrooms is not a task for amateurs. Mistaking a toxic species for an edible one can have dire consequences. Consultation with an experienced mycologist or field guide is essential for those interested in foraging for tree-dwelling mushrooms.

Identifying Poisonous Tree-Growing Mushrooms

Recognizing toxic tree-growing mushrooms is a skill that can save lives. While an in-depth guide is necessary for accurate identification, here are some general pointers:

1. Cap Characteristics

Pay attention to the cap’s size, shape, and texture. Poisonous tree-growing mushrooms often have distinctive cap features, such as warts, scales, or a slimy appearance.

2. Gills and Spore Print

The color and attachment of gills, as well as the spore print’s color, can be crucial identification factors. Changes in these features can help differentiate between species.

3. Location

Tree-dwelling mushrooms often have specific tree associations. Knowing the type of tree on which the mushroom grows can aid identification.

4. Odor

Some tree-growing mushrooms have unique odors that can be indicative of their species. A strong, unpleasant smell is a common trait among many toxic varieties.

Poisonous Mushrooms that Grow on Trees

There are a number of poisonous mushrooms that grow on trees. Some of the most common and dangerous include:

• Death cap (Amanita phalloides): This is the deadliest mushroom in the world and is responsible for the majority of fatal mushroom poisonings. It can be found growing on various trees, including oak, beech, and maple. Death caps have a white to light brown cap and a white stem.
• Destroying angel (Amanita verna): This is another highly poisonous mushroom that is closely related to the death cap. It is similar in appearance to the death cap but has a slighter cap and a more slender stem. Destroying angels can also be found growing on a variety of trees.
• Deadly webcap (Cortinarius rubellus): This mushroom is less well-known than the death cap and destroying angel, but it is just as deadly. It has a reddish-brown cap and a pale stem. Deadly webcaps can be found growing on the roots of oak and beech trees.
• Panther cap (Amanita pantherina): This mushroom is also poisonous, but not as deadly as the death cap or destroying angel. It has a gray-to-brown cap and a white stem. Panther caps can be found growing on various trees, including oak, beech, and pine.
• Fly agaric (Amanita muscaria): This mushroom is well-known for its bright red cap with white spots. It is poisonous, but not usually deadly. However, eating fly agaric can cause unpleasant side effects, such as hallucinations, nausea, and vomiting. Fly agarics can be found growing on various trees, including birch, pine, and spruce.

It is important to note that there are also a number of edible mushrooms that grow on trees. However, it is important to be able to identify mushrooms accurately before consuming them. If you are unsure about a mushroom, it is best to err on the side of caution and leave it alone.

Here are some tips for avoiding poisonous mushrooms:

• Only eat mushrooms that you have positively identified as edible.
• Never eat mushrooms that are growing on or near trees.
• Avoid mushrooms that have a bright or unusual color.
• Avoid mushrooms that have a slimy or sticky texture.
• If you are unsure about a mushroom, leave it alone.

If you do accidentally consume a poisonous mushroom, seek medical attention immediately.

Pictures of Poisonous Mushrooms that Grow on Trees

Here are pictures of some poisonous mushrooms that grow on trees:

Death cap mushroom (Amanita phalloides)

Death cap mushrooms are found in temperate forests all over the world. They are often found in association with oak trees, but they can also be found near other types of trees.

Death cap mushrooms are white or yellowish green in color, with a smooth cap that is typically 5-15 centimeters in diameter. The cap may have a greenish tinge or a faint yellow halo around the margin. The gills are white and free, meaning that they are not attached to the stalk. The stalk is white or yellowish green, with a bulbous base. The ring is white and movable, and it often has a white volva (cup-shaped structure) at the base of the stalk.

Death cap mushrooms are very difficult to distinguish from some edible mushrooms, such as the field mushroom (Agaricus campestris) and the straw mushroom (Volvariella volvacea). However, there are a few key differences that can help you to identify a death cap mushroom.

Destroying angel (Amanita verna)

The destroying angel mushroom (Amanita verna), also known as the fool’s mushroom or the spring-destroying angel, is a deadly poisonous basidiomycete fungus, one of many in the genus Amanita. It is found in Europe in spring, where it is associated with various deciduous and coniferous trees.

Amanita verna is characterized by its white cap and stalk, free gills, and a persistent ring on the upper stalk. The cap is typically 5 to 10 cm in diameter and can be pure white or have a slightly yellowish or pinkish tinge. The stalk is 5 to 15 cm tall and has a bulbous base. The gills are white and free, meaning that they are not attached to the stalk. The ring is white and persistent, meaning that it does not fall off easily.

Amanita verna contains the same toxins as its close relative, the death cap (Amanita phalloides). These toxins are amatoxins and phallotoxins, which are highly poisonous to humans. Ingestion of Amanita verna can lead to severe liver damage and death.

There is no antidote for amatoxin poisoning. Treatment is supportive and may include liver dialysis or transplantation.

If you suspect that you or someone you know has eaten a destroying angel mushroom, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.

Deadly webcap (Cortinarius rubellus)

The deadly webcap (Cortinarius rubellus) is a poisonous mushroom that is found in Europe and North America. It is one of the most dangerous mushrooms in the world, and even a small amount can cause kidney failure and death.

Deadly webcaps have a reddish-brown cap that is often covered in fine hairs. The gills are orange-brown and crowded together. The stem is slender and white, and it has a thin, cobweb-like veil that can sometimes be seen at the base.

Deadly webcaps can be easily confused with other edible mushrooms, such as the orange chanterelle (Cantharellus cibarius). However, there are a few key differences that can help to distinguish between the two mushrooms

Panther cap (Amanita pantherina)

The panther cap (Amanita pantherina) is a poisonous mushroom that is closely related to the Fly Agaric (Amanita muscaria). It is found in forests and woodlands throughout Europe and Western Asia.

Panther cap mushrooms have a dark brown to reddish brown cap with thick white scales or spots. The stem is white and has a white ring. Panther cap mushrooms can be easily confused with the edible blusher mushroom (Amanita rubescens), but the panther cap has darker scales and a more pronounced ring on the stem.

Panther cap mushrooms contain the same toxins as fly agaric mushrooms, ibotenic acid, and muscimol. These toxins can cause a variety of symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, sweating, headache, dizziness, and hallucinations. In severe cases, panther cap poisoning can be fatal.

There is no antidote for panther cap poisoning, so treatment is supportive. This may involve gastric lavage, activated charcoal, and fluids. In severe cases, mechanical ventilation may be required.

It is important to avoid eating any wild mushrooms unless you are absolutely sure of their identity. If you are unsure of a mushroom, it is best to leave it alone.

Fly agaric (Amanita muscaria)

The fly agaric mushroom (Amanita muscaria) is one of the most recognizable and iconic mushrooms in the world. It is also one of the most poisonous.

Fly agaric mushrooms are characterized by their bright red or orange caps with white spots. They have a white stem with a white ring and a white cup at the base. Fly agaric mushrooms are found in forests and woodlands throughout the Northern Hemisphere.

Fly agaric mushrooms contain a number of toxins, including ibotenic acid and muscimol. These toxins can cause a variety of symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, sweating, headache, dizziness, and hallucinations. In severe cases, fly agaric poisoning can be fatal.

Despite its toxicity, the fly agaric mushroom has a long history of use in traditional medicine and shamanic rituals. It has been used to induce visions and trance states and to treat a variety of ailments, including pain, inflammation, and mental illness.

In recent years, there has been renewed interest in the potential medicinal properties of the fly agaric mushroom. Some studies have shown that fly agaric extracts may be effective in treating depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings and to determine the safe and effective use of fly agaric mushrooms for medicinal purposes.

It is important to note that the fly agaric mushroom is a poisonous mushroom and should not be consumed without proper preparation and guidance. If you are considering using fly agaric mushrooms for medicinal purposes, it is important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional.

Please note that these are just a few examples of poisonous mushrooms that grow on trees. There are many other poisonous mushrooms out there, and it is important to be able to identify them accurately before consuming any wild mushrooms. If you are unsure about a mushroom, it is best to err on the side of caution and leave it alone.

Conclusion

Tree-growing mushrooms are a captivating and essential part of our ecosystem, but it’s essential to approach them with caution. The world of poisonous mushrooms that grow on trees is a reminder of the delicate balance in nature.

The beauty of these fungi should be enjoyed, but always with a healthy respect for their potential dangers. For those who wish to explore this world further, thorough education and expert guidance are the keys to safely navigating this enigmatic realm.