gumtree deceiver

Laccaria fraterna

Known as a 'deceiver' because its color changes drastically from bright reddish-orange when wet to a dull, faded buff when dry.

Scientific name: Laccaria fraterna
Taxonomy: Fungi › Basidiomycota › Agaricomycetes › Agaricales › Hydnangiaceae › Laccaria
IUCN Red List status: Least Concern
Population trend: stable
Biome: forest
Habitat: Eucalyptus forests, woodlands, and plantations, often in disturbed soils or leaf litter near host trees.
Diet: Mycorrhizal (absorbs nutrients through a symbiotic relationship with host tree roots).
Range: Australia, Europe, North America, South America, New Zealand, South Africa
Size: Cap diameter of 1 to 4 cm; stem length of 2 to 7 cm.
Lifespan: The underground mycelium can live for decades, while the above-ground mushroom cap lasts only 1-2 weeks.
Active: diurnal
Threats: Habitat loss, deforestation of Eucalyptus hosts, and soil compaction.
Safe to approach?: Harmless to touch and observe. However, wild mushrooms should never be consumed unless identified by an expert, as they can be easily confused with toxic species. If accidentally ingested, seek medical attention immediately.

Laccaria fraterna is a species of Laccaria from Australia growing in Eucalyptus and Acacia introduced into the United States.

Photo: anonymous, CC-BY-SA, via iNaturalist