The Sickener
Russula emetica
Family: Russulaceae
Also called: The Sickener, Emetic Russula, Vomiting Russula
Overview
Vivid red-capped Russula of damp conifer mossbeds. Intensely acrid; causes severe vomiting. The default 'taste test' Russula to avoid.
Edibility
Toxic
Rarity
common
Trophic mode
mycorrhizal
Typical peak
Sep–Oct
Season
Sep–Nov — typical fruiting months: Aug, Sep, Oct.
Host trees & substrate
- Mycorrhizal with pine
- Mycorrhizal with hemlock
Where it grows
See live fruiting predictions for The Sickener 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.