Amanita subjunquillea (East Asian death cap) — Poisonous Mushroom

Korean name: 개나리광대버섯

A deadly mushroom with a yellowish cap. It is one of the leading causes of fatal mushroom poisoning in Korea and is dangerous when mistaken for edible species.

Key facts

• Category: Poisonous mushroom
• Toxicity: Poisonous — do not eat. Keep children and pets away.
• Native to: Korea, Japan, China
• Traits: Deadly, Yellow, Amanita, Amatoxin, Common in Korea
• Also known as: East Asian death cap

Toxicity, identification & first aid

• Toxic symptoms: Contains amatoxins. Symptoms follow the same course as the destroying angel. Can cause fatal liver and kidney failure; the fatality rate is very high.
• Appearance: Cap 3–8 cm, yellow to yellow-brown. White stem with a cup-shaped volva at the base.
• Where found: Broadleaf forests, especially around oaks, in mountains nationwide.
• Season: Summer to autumn (July–October)
• Look-alike warning: Yellow Caesar-type Amanitas (edible) and chanterelles (edible, yellow).
• Emergency action: Call emergency services (119 in Korea) and go to the ER immediately. Do not induce vomiting. Amatoxins are hard to remove even with dialysis.

Common questions

Can you eat Amanita subjunquillea?

No. Amanita subjunquillea is poisonous. Contains amatoxins. Symptoms follow the same course as the destroying angel. Can cause fatal liver and kidney failure; the fatality rate is very high.

What does Amanita subjunquillea look like and where does it grow?

Cap 3–8 cm, yellow to yellow-brown. White stem with a cup-shaped volva at the base. Broadleaf forests, especially around oaks, in mountains nationwide. Summer to autumn (July–October)

What can Amanita subjunquillea be mistaken for?

Yellow Caesar-type Amanitas (edible) and chanterelles (edible, yellow).

What should you do if someone eats Amanita subjunquillea?

Call emergency services (119 in Korea) and go to the ER immediately. Do not induce vomiting. Amatoxins are hard to remove even with dialysis.