Yellow mushrooms are a fascinating adventure that will reveal the abundance of biodiversity in nature right at your doorstep. This guide reveals the details of 14 yellow mushrooms. It offers insights into their unique attributes, and provides helpful tips for identifying them.
What Are the Different Types of Yellow Mushrooms In Your Garden?
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Yellow mushrooms come in many different species, each with its own unique characteristics.
The following species are key species:
- Golden Waxcap
- Golden Spindles
- Witch’s butter
- Golden Chanterelle
- Golden Oyster Mushrooms
- Flowerpot Parasol
- Chicken of the Woods
- Yellow American Blusher
- Ochre Brittlegill
- Golden Ear
- Golden Coincap
- Wood Hedgehog
- Mud Puppy Mushroom
- Jack-O-Lantern Mushroom
Understanding the different types of plants can help you distinguish between those that are edible and those that may be harmful.
| Mushroom Species | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Golden Waxcap | -Can be mistaken with other yellow waxcaps, some of which may be mildly toxic -Found in Europe, North America and Northern Asia. -The cap grows between 2 to 4 cm in size |
| Golden Spindles | -The edible quality is unknown -Found mainly in forest soils and meadows -Up to 10 cm high and 1 cm in width |
| Witch’s butter | -It is considered edible, but it’s not often consumed because of its gelatinous texture and bland taste. -Found on dead deciduous trees, particularly oaks -Can reach a diameter of 10 cm -Jelly-like Fungus |
| Golden Chanterelle | – Highly prized and edible for their culinary values – Found on the forest floor of hardwood forests that have a lot of organic material – Can be golden yellow or white. – Wide funnel-shaped cap |
| Golden Oyster Mushrooms | -They are edible and have a mild nutty taste -Can be grown on many substrates including sawdust and coffee grounds. -They grow on hardwood trees that are dead or dying, like oak, beech and elm -The cap can reach a diameter of 10 cm. |
| Flowerpot Parasol | -Toxic if consumed -Regular watering is required to maintain humidity levels -Found in greenhouses, flowerpots, potted plants and soil -A small mushroom that grows up to 3 inches high |
| Chicken of the Woods | -When foraging mushrooms, it is important to identify the species correctly. There are many similar-looking types that can be toxic. -When cooked thoroughly, it is considered edible. -The fungus is often found growing at or near the base of trees. -Clusters of large, vibrant yellow and orange flowers |
| Yellow American Blusher | -Toxic and should not eat unless positively confirmed by an expert -Found with hardwoods such as beech and oak -Caps can be 35-105mm wide |
| Ochre Brittlegill | -When foraging mushrooms, it is important to identify the different varieties as some look similar but are toxic. -Found mainly growing on forest soils -The cap can reach a diameter of 10 cm. |
| Golden Ear | -There is limited information available on the edibility of this plant. -The plant is found in coniferous and deciduous woodland -The cap can reach a diameter of 10 cm. |
| Golden Coincap | -Potentially toxic -Grows mainly in forest soils and meadows -Can reach a height of 10 cm and a width of 1 cm -Small and bright yellow |
| Wood Hedgehog | -Foraging for mushrooms is a common activity. -The mossy leaf litter and moss can be found growing on the forest floor and in damp woods of all types. -The cap can reach a diameter of 10 cm. |
14 Yellow Mushroom Species: Identifying the Varieties
My yellow mushroom guide provides data-driven information to help you identify and understand the 14 different species.
I do not recommend that you eat these mushrooms if your knowledge of them is limited or you are not sure where the mushroom came from.
1. Golden Waxcap (Hygrocybe Chlorophana)
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The Golden Waxcap is also known scientifically as Hygrocybe chlorophana. It is a small, yellow, mushroom native to the grasslands and woodlands of Europe, North America and isolated mountainous southern areas in Australia.
The “waxcap” is easily identified by its vivid yellow color and cap that looks like it has been dipped into. The underside of this mushroom has a fairly large number of gills.
Golden Waxcaps are not used as often in cooking due to their unremarkable flavor and rarity. It’s important to consult with a specialist prior to consumption, despite its non-toxic nature.
| Plant Type | Fungus |
| Plant Size | Golden Waxcaps can grow to a diameter of 2 to 4 cm. |
| Growth Rate | The Golden Waxcap belongs to the autumn and winter season. In the search results, the growth rate of Golden Waxcap was not mentioned. |
| Soil Needs | Golden Waxcap is found in Europe in short-sward, old grassland. In North America and Asia, it grows in woods. Recent research indicates that waxcaps may not be mycorrhizal or saprotrophic, but rather associated with mosses. |
| Sunlight Requirements | Golden Waxcap is found in Europe, North America, and Asia. |
| Toxicity | Golden Waxcaps are edible. It is easy to confuse it with other yellow waxcaps that are mildly toxic . It is best to avoid. |
2. Golden Spindles (Clavulinopsis Fusiformis)
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Golden Spindles or Clavulinopsis Fusiformis is a yellow mushroom due to the bright yellow color. This fungus has cylindrical, slim, elongated fruiting bodies, which are unbranched and grow in dense clusters. They look like corals.Golden Spindles are commonly growing on forest soils and meadows.
Clavulinopsis Fusiformis, however, is not toxic. It is not toxic, despite the fact that it’s listed in various guides as either edible or non-edible. This mushroom can be identified by its distinctive shape, color and growth pattern.
| Plant Type | Fungus |
| Plant Size | Golden Spindles can reach a height of 10 cm and a width of 1 cm. |
| Soil Needs | Golden Spindles are found mainly in forest soils or meadows. |
| Toxicity | Golden Spindles are both edible and non-edible according to various guides. |
3. Witch’s Butter (Tremella Mesenterica)
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Witch’s Butter is also known scientifically as Tremella senterica. It’s a yellow-orange mushroom species that’s attributed to the orange-yellow mass which forms its fruiting body.Witch’s Butter is usually growing on dead deciduous wood, especially oaks.
The mushroom’s irregular shape and lobed surface are its most distinctive features when dried.
Witch’s Butter, despite its unsettling name and appearance, is edible and non-toxic, if not noted for its bland taste. It grows primarily on dead wood. It parasitizes other wood-decomposing fungal. This is especially true after rains and during periods of wet weather.
Its lack of flavor prevents it from being considered a culinary delight, even if its edibility is proven.
| Plant Type | Fungus |
| Plant Size | Witch’s Butter, a jellylike fungus with a diameter of up to 10cm. |
| Soil Needs | Witch’s butter grows on dead deciduous trees, particularly oaks. |
| Toxicity | Witch’s Butter, although edible, is not widely consumed due to the bland taste and gelatinous consistency. |
4. Golden Chanterelle (Cantharellus)
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Golden Chanterelle is also known scientifically as Cantharellus Cibarius. It’s a yellow, brightly colored mushroom. This fungus can be identified by its smooth caps, curled edges and forked ridges that run down the stem.
The fruity taste of the cooked is often compared to ripe apricots. Be cautious when foraging, as the mushroom looks and tastes like the deadly Jack-O-Lantern.
This abundant edible mushroom grows in Europe’s deciduous and coniferous forests.
| Plant Type | Fungus (Mycorrhizal) |
| Plant Size | The typical diameter is 2-7 cm and the height is 2-6 cm. |
| Growth Rate | Slow to Moderate |
| Soil Needs | It is moist and well-draining. |
| Water Requirements | Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. |
| Temperature Needs | Temperatures are usually between 10 degrees Celsius and 20 degree Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit – 68 degrees Fahrenheit). |
| Sunlight Needs | Under trees or in forests, partial shade can be found as dappled sun. |
| Toxicity | As an edible mushroom, it is generally non-toxic and safe to consume. |
5. Golden Oyster Mushrooms (Pleurotus Citrinopileatus)
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The Golden Oyster Mushrooms are non-toxic, and they belong to the Pleurotaceae Family. They are easily recognized by their bright yellow to golden brown colors, which is a characteristic of their native habitats.Golden Oyster Mushrooms are saprotrophic, meaning they feed on the wood of dying or dead trees, particularly elm, cherry, beech, maple, and oak.
This species is easily identified by its brightly colored cap, which has a depressed center and often looks like a funnel. These mushrooms are rare and have a unique flavor.
You must therefore constantly distinguish this edible mushroom from other similar-looking species, such as poisonous Western Jack-o-Lantern mushrooms.
| Plant Type | Fungus |
| Plant Size | Golden Oyster Mushrooms have a cap that can reach a diameter of 10 cm. |
| Growth Rate | In the search results, it is not stated what growth rate Golden Oyster Mushrooms have. |
| Soil Needs | Golden oyster mushrooms grow on hardwood trees such as oak, beech and elm that are dead or dying. The mushrooms can be grown on many substrates including sawdust and coffee grounds. |
| Water Requirements | Golden Oyster Mushrooms need regular misting or irrigation to maintain humidity levels. |
| Temperature Requirements | Golden Oyster Mushrooms prefer temperatures between 18-27 degrees Celsius. |
| Sunlight Requirements | Golden oyster mushrooms can be grown under low-light conditions but need indirect light to develop the characteristic golden color. |
| Toxicity | Golden oyster mushrooms are edible, and they have a mild nutty taste. They are rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber and protein. |
6. Flowerpot Parasol (Leucocoprinus Birnbaumii)
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The yellow flowerpot parasol is scientifically called Leucocoprinus Birnbaumii. It grows in flowerpots, greenhouses, and other places around the world.Flowerpot Parasol is commonly in potted plants, greenhouses, and flower pots.
The bright yellow-sulfur color is a distinctive characteristic of spores that are transported by imported exotic plants.
It also has a conical or egg-shaped scaly cap with bright yellow inner flesh, and sulfur-yellow-colored gills which do not attach to stems.
This mushroom, which helps in the decomposition of organic matter and provides beneficial nutrients to plants, is toxic and poses potential risks if consumed by children or animals. It is easy to identify, as it appears in moist soil, usually during the summer.
| Plant Type | Fungus |
| Plant Size | Flowerpot Parasols can be as tall as 1 to 3 inches. |
| Soil Needs | Flowerpot Parasol is a plant that grows in soil. It can be found in flower pots, greenhouses and potted plants. |
| Water Requirements | Flowerpot Parasols require regular watering in order to maintain humidity levels. |
| Temperature Requirements | Flowerpot Parasols prefer tropical temperatures. |
| Sunlight Requirements | Flowerpot Parasol is tolerant of low light but prefers indirect lighting. |
| Toxicity | Flowerpot Parasol can be toxic if eaten. |
7. Chicken of the Woods (Laetiporus)
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The scientific name for Chicken of the Woods is Laetiporus. It’s a yellow-orange colored mushroom.
The key characteristics of this tree-dwelling fungal include a cap that spans 2-10 inches in diameter, the absence of stems and a distinctive, yellowish spore pattern under wrinkled caps.
Laetiporus, despite its vivid color, is non-toxic. It has a taste that is similar to chicken meat when eaten. It’s important to remember that only young mushroom should be eaten. Only after thorough cooking as some tree species are toxic.
Chicken of the Woods is also unique in that its underside has pores, not gills or other ridges. This makes it easy to identify.
| Plant Type | Fungus |
| Plant Size | The cap of Chicken of the Woods is available in sizes ranging from 5-30 cm wide and 20-20 cm deep. It can also be 3 cm thick. |
| Growth Rate | In the search results, the growth rate of Chicken of the Woods was not included. |
| Soil Needs | Chicken of the Woods, a parasitic and saprobic fungus, is commonly found on oaks that are alive and dead. It can also be found on the wood of some hardwoods. It can cause a reddish brown cubical heart rot to appear in the wood. |
| Sunlight Requirements | The bright yellow and orange clusters of the Chicken of the Woods are often visible from the roadside. |
| Toxicity | When thoroughly cooked, Chicken of the Woods can be considered an edible mushroom. It is important to identify mushrooms correctly when mushroom-foraging, because similar-looking types may be toxic. |
8. Yellow American Blusher (Amanita Clavorubens)
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The Yellow American Blusher is a species of yellowish-brown, or bright yellow warty mushroom with a cap that measures between 1.8 and 5.5 inches.
The color is due to the mycorrhizal relationship with trees such as birches and oaks. The crowded gill patterns on the underside are easily identifiable. They are slightly attached to a pale yellow stem that has a wide base.
As with most Amanita species, the toxicity of this mushroom remains unknown. However, it is still recommended to avoid ingesting due to its potentially harmful effects.
| Plant Type | Fungus (Mycorrhizal) |
| Plant Size | The stem height can vary greatly. Cap diameter is typically between 5-15 cm (2-4 inches). |
| Growth Rate | Rapid to Moderate |
| Water Requirements | A good amount of moisture is often found in areas that are damp and during rainy season |
| Sunlight Needs | Under trees and in wooded areas, partial shade to full shade is often found. |
| Toxicity | Avoid as it is toxic and easily confused with other Amanitas |
9. Ochre Brittlegill (Russula Ochroleuca)
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It is a yellow-hued mushroom, and its pale yellow cap makes it stand out.
The brittlegill is easily identified by its white, creamy gills. These gills darken with age. This delicate, but large mushroom is found under birch and aspen trees. It grows in the spring and summer.
It is edible, but it should be handled with care as it can be delicate. It’s important to identify the plant accurately, even though it is edible. This will ensure that it’s not toxic before consumption.
| Plant Type | Fungus |
| Plant Size | The Ochre Brittlegill cap can reach a diameter of up to 10cm. |
| Growth Rate | The main season of Ochre Brittlegill begins in May, and ends in November. Search results do not specify the growth rate of Ochre Brittlegill. |
| Soil Needs | Ochre Brittlegill is mainly found on forest soils. |
| Sunlight Requirements | The Ochre Brittlegill grows in deciduous or coniferous wood. |
| Toxicity | Ochre Brittlegill can be eaten, but it must first be thoroughly cooked. When foraging mushrooms, it is important to identify the species, because there are many similar-looking types that can be toxic. |
10. Golden Ear (Tremella Aurantia)
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Golden Ear is also known scientifically as Tremella Aurantia. It’s a brightly yellow fungus that is widespread across North America. The lobed caps give it its yellow color and earlike appearance. They can grow up to six inches in width during wet seasons.Golden Ear is a parasitic jelly fungus that attacks Stereum hirsutum, a type of hardwood tree.
Insufficient data makes it necessary to classify this mushroom as safe to consume. Identification clues include an orange-red cap that shrivels up when dried, as well as a preference for dead broadleaf tree species and white spores.
It is often confused with witch’s Butter. However, the latter grows on false turkey tails, while the former parasitizes Peniophora species fungi.
| Plant Type | Fungus |
| Plant Size | Golden Ear, also known as a jelly fungus, can reach a diameter of up to 10cm. |
| Growth Rate | In the search results, it is not stated what growth rate Golden Ear has. |
| Soil Needs | Golden Ear is a parasitic fungus which attacks hardwood trees of the Stereum hirsutum type. Only dead hardwood trees are affected. |
| Water Requirements | In the search results, it is not stated what water Golden Ear requires. |
| Temperature Requirements | In the search results, it is not stated what temperature Golden Ear requires. |
| Sunlight Requirements | In the search results, it is not stated what sunlight Golden Ear requires. |
| Toxicity | Golden Ears are not often consumed as food and there is limited information about their edibility. |
11. Golden Coincap (Cyptotrama Chrysopepla)
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Golden Coincap is also known scientifically as Cryptotrama Chrysopepla. It’s a yellow species of mushroom with small yellow convex caps which later flatten.
Its unique appearance is a result of this feature. This, along with the scaly edges and gills that are widely attached, give it a distinctive look. It attaches to trees with a stalk that measures about 1.6 inches tall.
It is not known if the yellowish flesh of this plant, which has an attractive appearance, is toxic.
| Plant Type | Fungus |
| Plant Size | Golden Coincap’s cap is small, bright and golden yellow. It can reach a diameter of up to 2 cm. |
| Soil Needs | Golden Coincap grows in wood. |
| Toxicity | Potentially toxic |
12. Wood Hedgehog (Hydnum Repandum)
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Wood Hedgehog or Hydnum repandum is a yellowish mushroom that can be found in North America and Europe. The mushroom’s yellow color and the presence of spines under its cap make it easy to identify.Wood Hedgehog has a spiky appearance, with teeth-like structures on the underside of the cap instead of gills.
It is a small, round vegetable that can be cooked to a delicious earthy flavor. This complements meats, vegetables, and savory dishes. The Wood Hedgehog, despite its intimidating appearance, is not poisonous and completely edible.
However, when picking mushrooms in the wild, it is important to be cautious. This includes identifying the mushroom by its size, color and location.
| Plant Type | Fungus |
| Plant Size | The Wood Hedgehog’s cap can reach a diameter of up to 10cm. |
| Soil Needs | Wood Hedgehog can be found in damp woods of all types, and also on forest floors under moss. It is ectomycorrhizal and forms a symbiotic relation with certain trees. |
| Toxicity | Wood Hedgehogs are considered edible mushrooms and are popular for foraging. It’s vital to identify the mushroom correctly before eating it. Similar-looking species can be toxic. |
13. Mud Puppy Mushroom (Cantharellus Californicus)
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The mud-puppy is a wild, creamy-yellow or bright-yellow mushroom that is native to North America. Yellow mushrooms are characterized by irregularly shaped caps and pale gills along the stem. These yellow wood mushrooms can grow up to 12″ (50 – 60 cm).
Mud puppy mushrooms are often found growing in wetlands or near streams. The orange-yellow mushroom, also known as oak chanterelles or oak chanterelles is often found growing around oak trees. This is a common edible mushroom in western United States.
14. Jack-O-Lantern mushroom (Omphalotus Illudens)
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The jack-o’-lantern is an orange-yellow fungus that looks similar to yellow chanterelles. The fungi are found in clusters. They can be identified by the convex cap, which becomes funnel-shaped. Also, they have closely-spaced gills that cover curved stalks. The chanterelle-like fungi can grow from 2″ to 8″, (5-20 cm) in length and diameter.
Bioluminescence is another feature of the jack-o’-lantern. The mushroom emits a greenish glow, particularly at night. This is what gives it its name. The mushrooms can be found at the base trees during the summer and autumn.
Safety Tips for Determining Types of Yellow Mushrooms
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Yellow mushrooms are easy to identify and handle. Here are some safety guidelines:
- It’s Best to Get a Permit
- Don’t Forage In Dangerous Areas
- Check Carefully the Gills, Stem, and Especially the Cap
- Once Identified Edible, Cook the Mushroom!
- Double- Actually Triple Check!
- Compare to Other Similar Looking Species
- Consulting a Professional Is the Best Way
It’s Best to Get a Permit
It is important to obtain a permit if you plan to collect yellow mushrooms and sell them. To identify a yellow fungus, you must carefully observe its size, color and location. You should also pay attention to the odor and taste of it, as well as other physical characteristics like the cap, gills and scales.
Don’t Forage In Dangerous Areas
Never harvest mushrooms or inspect them in dangerous zones. You must ensure your safety before you identify any yellow mushrooms.
Check Carefully the Gills, Stem, and Especially the Cap
For accurate identification of a yellow fungus, consider its stem, cap and gills. Take into account the overall size of the mushroom, its color, whether it has a ring or not on the stem. Also, look for scales on the cap and if the gills are attached to the stem.
Once Identified Edible, Cook the Mushroom!
Be sure to identify and confirm a mushroom accurately before eating it, especially if you find a yellow variety in your garden or indoor plant. If you’ve identified a mushroom as edible, cook it thoroughly prior to consumption.
Double- Actually Triple Check!
When identifying a mushroom that is yellow, make sure to check for similar species. This will help you avoid confusion and possible harm. You should be very thorough when observing the mushroom, taking into account factors like size, color and stem characteristics.
Compare to Other Similar Looking Species
It is important to distinguish between common species of yellow mushrooms that look similar. Be sure to examine their distinctive features as misidentification can have dangerous health consequences.
Consulting a Professional Is the Best Way
If you are unsure about the species of a yellow fungus, consult with a professional. Accurate identification is crucial to ensure your safety and avoid consuming toxic or harmful mushrooms.
I Don’t Want Mushrooms In My Garden – How to Eliminate Them?
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Water your houseplants only when the top 2-inch (5 centimeters) of soil is completely dry. You should also remove all decaying plant matter as soon as possible.
Handpick visible mushrooms to avoid spores. By maintaining a clean and well-watered environment, you can prevent the growth of mushrooms.
Conclusion
Identification of the different species of yellow mushrooms can be a fascinating pursuit. It opens up a world of shapes and colors that are unique. Safety is paramount. Be curious, but be cautious. Only consume mushrooms that are indisputably labelled as safe. This will transform this fascinating hobby into a safe and enriching experience.
Featured and Pinterest image credit to: adege