These are the six most poisonous mushrooms in Spain

Toxic and even deadly species can be confused with others that are totally harmless and edible.

It’s mushroom season. Fans from all over Spain are already invading the mountains and forests in search of their favorite species. Experts easily recognize those fungi that can be toxic and even deadly, but those who enter this exciting world must be warned by the existence of several species that are truly dangerous to humans. In fact, Every year in Spain, an average of three people die from eating poisonous mushrooms, according to official statistics.

It is necessary to make sure which mushrooms are being collected and go to an expert if necessary. When in doubt, you should refrain from ingesting suspicious species. This is a list of some of the most toxic mushrooms in Spain, but of course there are a few more.

1- ‘Amanita phalloides’ (Green Oronja/Green Hemlock)

In Spain it is known by several popular names: green oronja, green hemlock, mortal oronja, death mushroom… It is undoubtedly the deadly mushroom par excellence and the queen of poisonous mushrooms. It is responsible for 90 percent of deaths from toxic mushroom consumption. Its poison is so powerful that it can cause death even if a single specimen is consumed.

It grows throughout the Iberian Peninsula and in all types of forests. The poison of this mushroom attacks and destroys the cells of the central nervous system, the liver and the muscles. The most common symptoms are nausea and vomiting, bloody diarrhea, and cramps.

Urgent hospitalization is essential.

It is white at birth and, when its hat grows, it acquires an olive green color and yellowish tones.

2- ‘Amanita verna’ (White Oronja/White Hemlock)

It is especially dangerous, since Due to its color, it is easily confused with the Paris mushroom or the wild mushroom., two harmless and delicious mushrooms. It is found in the Spanish pastures and pine forests, distributed evenly.

It is characterized by its white color and round hat and as it grows it opens.

It is also considered, along with the phalloides, one of the most poisonous mushrooms in the world. Like its cousin, it contains a deadly dose of alpha-amanitin, which causes liver failure if not treated immediately. The first symptoms after eating this mushroom appear after between 6 and 24 hours.

3 – ‘Amanita muscaria’ (fly swatter)

It can be seen in our fields and forests from late summer to early autumn. It is not fatal, but it is very toxic, since its neurotoxic effects are very aggressive. The liver and digestive system, in addition to the nervous system, will be strongly affected by this fungus.

The fly swatter has the virtue of paralyzing insects that come into contact with it, and hence its popular name. It is a striking mushroom, in which, according to mythology, gnomes live.

It also has hallucinogenic properties.

4- ‘Cortinarius orellanus’

Symptoms indicating orellanin poisoning are similar to the common flu; that is: nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, headache. After them, kidney failure appears: thirst, frequent urination, kidney pain.

The first symptoms do not appear until two or three days after ingesting it and in some cases it can take much longer, up to three weeks. It can be fatal.

As he C. orellanusAs the speciosissimus and the cinnamomeus They contain orellanin, which is a highly nephrotoxic substance in humans.

5- ‘Boletus satanas’ (Satan’s mushroom)

Although it is not fatal, It is very toxic, especially if eaten raw. It then causes gastrointestinal disorders, vomiting and diarrhea, which appear as soon as it has been ingested. Cooked, it is indigestible.

It usually grows in forest clearings next to the roots of holm oaks, beech and oak trees. It is uncommon but usually always grows in the same areas, mainly in the mid-altitude area of ​​the mountains or in the highest parts of the lowlands.

It is a large mushroom, its name is due in part to the fact that in advanced stages of life it takes on a reddish color throughout and becomes stained blue to the touch, mainly in the lower part. Its flesh is compact and white or yellowish. When cut it acquires a grayish tone and then bluish. Its smell is unpleasant and its taste is sweet.

6- ‘Gyromitra esculenta’ (bonnet mushroom/false morel)

For many decades the Gyromitra esculenta has been considered edible. But nothing further from reality. It is a highly toxic species if ingested naturally, that is, raw. It can even be fatal.

This mushroom can be seen in rocky places and under pine trees during spring. It prefers elevated sites, located more than 800 meters above sea level. It has an irregular shape and protuberances, reminiscent of a brain. It is very similar to the morel.

An invaluable aid to help identify poisonous mushrooms are the mobile apps that have been circulating among hobbyists for years. It doesn’t hurt to have one installed on our phone when we go out into the countryside. Here you can find them.

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