European Jack-O-Lantern
Omphalotus olearius
Family: Omphalotaceae
Also called: European Jack-O-Lantern, Olive Tree Mushroom
Overview
Mediterranean Jack-O-Lantern, occasionally reported in the Southeast. Severe GI distress.
Edibility
Toxic
Rarity
uncommon
Trophic mode
parasitic-saprotrophic
Typical peak
Sep–Oct
Season
Sep–Nov — typical fruiting months: Aug, Sep, Oct.
Host trees & substrate
- Living or recently dead oak
- Living or recently dead beech
- Living or recently dead maple
Where it grows
See live fruiting predictions for European Jack-O-Lantern on the forecast home page, or browse the full field guide.
Always confirm wild-mushroom identification with multiple sources and a knowledgeable local expert before consuming. Read the foraging safety guide.