Group of Fungi: Agarics

Family: Amanitaceae

Latin Name: Amanita vaginata (Bull.) Lam.

Synonym(s): Amanitopsis vaginata (Bull.) Roz

Common Name: Grisette

Description: Total height 4–8 in (10–20 cm); cap 2–4 in (5–10 cm) wide, dull to shiny white, upper surface smooth but sometimes with a few scattered white patches, margin striate; gills closely spaced, white; stalk 3 1/2–7 1/2 in (6.5–19 cm) long, 3/8–5/8 in (1–1.5 cm) in diameter, only slightly expanded at base, white; volva present at base of stalk, sac-like, white; spores white in mass.

Biological Role: Forms mycorrhizal associations with forest trees.

Habitat: On the ground in broadleaf and conifer forests; usually solitary but sometimes occurring in scattered groups.

Geographical Distribution: Found throughout North America.

Comments: Amanita vaginata is best regarded as a species complex made up of a number of very similar forms that are not easily distinguished. However, what is generally listed as Amanita vaginata in most guidebooks can be recognized by the combination of a gray to grayish brown cap and the complete absence of an annulus. The latter is an unusual feature for members of the genus Amanita. Although not regarded as poisonous, Amanita vaginata is not recommended for human consumption.