Gymnopilus spectabilis (Laughing gym) — Poisonous Mushroom
Korean name: 갈황색미치광이버섯
A hallucinogenic mushroom known for causing erratic, manic behavior after eating. It is a large yellow-brown mushroom that can be mistaken for edible species.
Key facts
- Category: Poisonous mushroom
- Toxicity: Poisonous — do not eat. Keep children and pets away.
- Native to: Temperate regions worldwide
- Traits: Hallucinogen, Yellow-brown, Large, Psychoactive, Grows on wood
- Also known as: Gymnopilus junonius, Laughing gym, Spectacular rustgill
Toxicity, identification & first aid
- Toxic symptoms: Contains psilocybin and psilocin. Hallucinations, confusion, agitation and abnormal behavior within 30 minutes to 1 hour. More severe in children.
- Appearance: Cap 5–15 cm, yellow-brown to reddish-tawny. Yellow gills, thick flesh and a bitter taste.
- Where found: Dead broadleaf and conifer trees and stumps, growing in clusters.
- Season: Summer to autumn (July–November)
- Look-alike warning: Edible yellow-brown wood mushrooms such as honey fungus.
- Emergency action: Call emergency services (119 in Korea) and go to the ER immediately. Hallucinations and agitation need calming treatment. Get a child to emergency care immediately.
Common questions
Can you eat Gymnopilus spectabilis?
No. Gymnopilus spectabilis is poisonous. Contains psilocybin and psilocin. Hallucinations, confusion, agitation and abnormal behavior within 30 minutes to 1 hour. More severe in children.
What does Gymnopilus spectabilis look like and where does it grow?
Cap 5–15 cm, yellow-brown to reddish-tawny. Yellow gills, thick flesh and a bitter taste. Dead broadleaf and conifer trees and stumps, growing in clusters. Summer to autumn (July–November)
What can Gymnopilus spectabilis be mistaken for?
Edible yellow-brown wood mushrooms such as honey fungus.
What should you do if someone eats Gymnopilus spectabilis?
Call emergency services (119 in Korea) and go to the ER immediately. Hallucinations and agitation need calming treatment. Get a child to emergency care immediately.