Amanita rubescens - Мухомор серо-розовый - Blusher

Amanita rubescens - Мухомор серо-розовый - Blusher - Perlpilz 9/18/11—10/19/24

Amanita rubescens, commonly known as the Blusher, is a basidiomycete fungus belonging to the Amanita genus. It is characterized by a pinkish-brown to greyish-brown cap with white warts, which can reach up to 15 cm in diameter. The white to pinkish-grey stem, which may grow up to 15 cm tall, features a distinct ring and a bulbous base with a membranous, sack-like volva. Advanced scientific research has shown that Amanita rubescens contains a hemolytic toxin called rubescentin, which breaks down red blood cells. However, cooking the Blusher can effectively destroy this toxin, making the mushroom edible when properly prepared. The Blusher is widely distributed across Europe and parts of North America, including parts of Russia, where it is known as Мухомор серо-розовый. It forms ectomycorrhizal relationships with various tree species, particularly deciduous trees like oaks, beeches, and birches, and is typically encountered during late summer and autumn. Amanita rubescens produces white, elliptical spores that measure approximately 8-10 µm by 6-7 µm. The spore print is also white, making it a key characteristic for identification. An estimated 1-2 million spores are produced per fruiting body, which are dispersed by wind and rain. Although Amanita rubescens is considered edible when cooked, it is crucial to exercise caution when foraging, as the Blusher can be easily confused with other toxic Amanita species. Ingestion of raw or undercooked Amanita rubescens may lead to gastrointestinal symptoms and, in rare cases, hemolysis. In German, this fungus is known as Perlpilz, a name that reflects its pinkish hue and its close relationship with the Amanita genus.