Amanita virosa (Destroying angel) — Poisonous Mushroom
Korean name: 독우산광대버섯
The deadliest mushroom in Korea. It looks pure white but contains amatoxins that cause liver failure 48–96 hours after eating.
Key facts
- Category: Poisonous mushroom
- Toxicity: Poisonous — do not eat. Keep children and pets away.
- Native to: Korea, Japan, Europe, North America
- Traits: Deadly, White, Amanita, Amatoxin, Liver toxin
- Also known as: Destroying angel
Toxicity, identification & first aid
- Toxic symptoms: Contains amatoxins (amanitin). 6–24 hours with no symptoms, then stomach pain, vomiting and diarrhea, a brief false recovery, and sudden liver and kidney failure 48–72 hours later. High fatality rate.
- Appearance: 10–15 cm tall, cap 5–12 cm. Entirely pure white, with a ring and a sac-like volva at the base.
- Where found: Broadleaf (oak, beech) and mixed forests, found in mountain forests nationwide.
- Season: Summer to autumn (July–October)
- Look-alike warning: Button mushrooms (white but no volva) and white edible Amanitas.
- Emergency action: Call emergency services (119 in Korea) and go to the ER immediately. Do not induce vomiting. Bring the mushroom you ate to the hospital.
Common questions
Can you eat Amanita virosa?
No. Amanita virosa is poisonous. Contains amatoxins (amanitin). 6–24 hours with no symptoms, then stomach pain, vomiting and diarrhea, a brief false recovery, and sudden liver and kidney failure 48–72 hours later. High fatality rate.
What does Amanita virosa look like and where does it grow?
10–15 cm tall, cap 5–12 cm. Entirely pure white, with a ring and a sac-like volva at the base. Broadleaf (oak, beech) and mixed forests, found in mountain forests nationwide. Summer to autumn (July–October)
What can Amanita virosa be mistaken for?
Button mushrooms (white but no volva) and white edible Amanitas.
What should you do if someone eats Amanita virosa?
Call emergency services (119 in Korea) and go to the ER immediately. Do not induce vomiting. Bring the mushroom you ate to the hospital.