Species guide
Jack-o'-lantern mushroom
Toxic if eatenOmphalotus olearius
What does Jack-o'-lantern mushroom look like?
A vivid orange mushroom that grows in clumps on wood and stumps, with true sharp gills running down the stem. Its gills can glow faintly in the dark.
Is Jack-o'-lantern mushroom dangerous?
Toxic — causes severe cramps and vomiting. It's the classic dangerous mimic that catches people hoping they've found chanterelles.
Commonly confused with
- Chanterelle: grows singly from soil, has blunt ridged false gills
What should I do about Jack-o'-lantern mushroom?
Don't eat it. Learn the differences from chanterelle and confirm any find with an expert.
Never decide what's safe to eat or touch from a photo or a web page. Identification here is for learning and curiosity only. For anything you might eat, handle or that could harm you or a pet, consult a qualified local expert, and seek medical or veterinary care if exposure has happened.