A miter mushroom, scientifically known as "Amanita mappa," is a species of fungus belonging to the genus Amanita. It is a medium-sized mushroom that typicals grows in deciduous and coniferous forests, as well as meadows and grasslands, across various regions of Europe and North America. The miter mushroom features a distinctive appearance that sets it apart from other fungi.
The cap of the miter mushroom is convex when young, gradually flattening out as it matures. It can reach a diameter of approximately 5-15 centimeters. Its color varies from reddish-brown to dark brown and may display concentric rings or patches of color. The flesh of the mushroom is white and firm. On the surface of the cap, patches of warts or floccose scales may be present, which can be either white, buff, or brown in color.
One of the defining characteristics of the miter mushroom is its white stem, which measures around 8-15 centimeters in height and 1.5-3 centimeters in thickness. The stem is cylindrical, sometimes tapering towards the base, and is covered in a delicate white or buff-colored veil. The lower part of the stem has a slightly swollen bulbous form, while the upper part features a double-edged, floppy ring-like structure known as an "annulus."
Miter mushrooms are generally considered toxic and should not be consumed. They contain several poisonous compounds, such as ibotenic acid and muscimol, which can cause severe gastrointestinal distress, hallucinations, and central nervous system toxicity if ingested.
