Fly Agaric

Even people who know little about mushrooms can usually spot a fly agaric, which stands out for its distinctive red colour and white spots.

These white spots are formed when the veil, which is the covering that surrounds the young mushroom, tears open and remains of it stick to the cap. However, some mushrooms may have no white spots, but orange or brownish spots instead. The gills, stem, and flesh of this mushroom are white. Fly agarics are very common, and they usually grow under spruce or birch trees, whose roots provide them with nutrients.

While the fly agaric, which is related to the death cap, is beautiful to look at, it is also poisonous, yet rarely fatal. Its toxins cause hallucinations, convulsions, and intoxication. In the past, pieces of fly agaric soaked in milk were used to catch flies, which is probably how the mushroom got its name. Today, the fly agaric is a popular symbol of good luck.