Steer Clear of These Jack-o-Lantern Mushrooms!

Police officers from Palos Park have reported sightings of clusters of these so-called “jack-o’-lantern mushrooms” (Omphalotus olearius) growing in the forest preserves in Palos. They have bioluminescent properties which make them glow in the dark at night, so for any nature lovers walking around the area, be careful not to eat them. Despite only being of medium severity, its poison can lead to a serious case of vomiting, cramps, and diarrhea. Commonly found in midwestern and eastern United States, they usually sprout in late summer and well into fall. 

Listen beautiful relax classics on our Youtube channel.

(Image credit: Jan Hearer/Unsplash)

However, do not confuse them with the chanterelle mushrooms which are completely edible. One marked difference between the two is that the jack-o’-lantern mushroom has true, sharp, non-forking gills while the chanterelle has false gills like ridges; and when the stem of the jack-o’-lantern is peeled, the inside is orange, as opposed to the paler hue of the chanterelle.

(Image credit: Timothy Dykes/Unsplash)

Source: neatorama

No votes yet.
Please wait...
Loading...