Amethyst Deceiver (Laccaria amethystina)

Amethyst Deceiver

This mushroom was first described in 1778, it is widespread across Britain and Ireland and grows in all types of woodland, usually amongst the leaf litter. When young, this beautiful fungus is deep purple in colour and quite distinctive. Older mushrooms can be difficult to identify, hence the name Deceiver, as the purple fades, eventually becoming buff coloured. The stalk can reach 10cm in height and the cap measuring up to 6cm across. The gills underneath are widely spaced and if you take a spore print, it will be white. Whilst this one is edible, it is not very flavoursome and can be easily confused with two other poisonous mushrooms - the Lilac Fibrecap and the Lilac Bonnet, so best not try it!