| Common Name(s) |
Death Cap |
 
|
| Latin Name |
Amanita phalloides |
| Description |
Fungi. The moist smooth cap is greenish yellow with a
darker centre with faint streaks. It is about 6 -12.5 cm (2 1/2 - 5 ins)
across. The stalk is white and smooth and approx. 6 -12.5 cm (2 1/2 - 5
ins) high, There is a bulbous cup at the base and an irregular ring near
the top of the stalk. The whole fungus has a sweet smell. |
| Hazards |
This is the most deadly fungus known, eating as
little as half a cap can be fatal. |
| Effects |
Poisoning is characterized by a delay of
between 6 and 24 hours in the onset of symptoms from the time of
ingestion, during which time the cells of the liver and kidneys are
attacked. The next stage is violent vomiting and diarrhoea and abdominal
pains lasting a day or more. Typically this is followed by an apparent
recovery, when the victim may be released from hospital or think their
ordeal is over. Within a few days death results from kidney and liver
failure. Their chance of survival depends on early recognition. |
| Growing Season |
Late Summer/ Autumn. |
| Location |
Fairly common in woods, especially Oak and
Beech. |
| Further
Information/ Links |
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