Yellow-gilled Gymnopilus
Gymnopilus luteofolius
Psychoactive Wood-Rotting Fungus Identified
1 / 3
All Images (3)
Key Features
- Purplish-red to maroon scales on cap
- Pale yellow to mustard yellow gills
- Fibrous
- purplish-flushed stem
- Grows on wood chips or dead wood
Color:
Purplish-red and pale yellow
Smell:
Unknown
Growth Pattern:
Clustered
Environment:
Wood chips
Habitat & Distribution
Habitat:
Urban potted plants and landscaped areas
Distribution:
North America, particularly widespread in California
Seasonality:
Late summer to winter
Economic Value
Market Demand:
None - toxic and legally restricted in many jurisdictions
Price Range:
N/A
Commercial Use:
None
Toxicity Information
Symptoms:
- Hallucinations
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Anxiety or panic
Onset Time:
20 - 60 minutes
First Aid:
- Keep the individual calm and in a safe environment
- Seek medical evaluation if ingested by pets or children
Emergency Contacts:
- 911 (US)
- Poison Help (US): 1-800-222-1222
Similar Species
Plums and Custard
Tricholomopsis rutilans
Key Differences:
- White spore print
- Typically grows on conifer stumps in forests, not urban wood chips
- Lacks psychoactive compounds
Magic Blue Gym
Gymnopilus aeruginosus
Key Differences:
- Cap often shows blue or green bruising
- Scales are typically less densely purplish-red
Recommended Action
Do not consume. Remove and dispose of safely if accessible to young children or household pets.