Deadly Skullcap Galerina marginata

Deadly Galerina is a species of poisonous mushroom and a wood-rotting fungus that is frequently found on decaying stumps or logs of conifer wood or hardwood. It is found in North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia during the late spring to late fall, and into early winter. It is often mistaken for edible varieties, such as honey mushrooms; however, if ingested, it can be deadly. This medium-sized mushroom with a smooth brown or yellowish-brown cap helps decompose wood and recycle nutrients back into the environment. It is a member of the fungi family (Hymenogastraceae). 

The small brown sticky caps, white annulus, rusty brown spore prints, and occurrence on rotted wood are good diagnostic characteristics of this mushroom. Its cap is small with a diameter of 2/3 to 1.5 inches. This species is one of a complex that is best separated by an expert. 

G. autumnalis, G. oregonensis, G. unicolor, and G. venenata were once thought of as separate species from Galerina marginata, but are now known to be the same species.  Regardless, this is one of North Carolina's most poisonous mushrooms.

The deadly toxins of this mushroom affect the liver and kidneys. Symptoms may not appear immediately and can cause a false sense of security. If ingested, seek medical care immediately and contact Poison Control. Be sure to save a specimen of the mushroom for identification. There is no known antidote; therefore, early intervention is essential. These mushrooms are toxic to humans, cats, and dogs.

Quick ID:

• Cap: Small, about 1.5-2.5 in. in diameter, sticky when moist, dark brown to brownish yellow as it dries, margin striate when wet.
• Gills: Attached to the top of the stalk, yellow becoming brown as spores develop.
• Stalk: Light brown to tan, fibrillose below annulus, hollow, base with dense white mycelium.
• Annulus: White becoming brown with spore deposit, located near the top of the stalk, may disappear with age.
• Spore Print: Rusty brown.