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16 Types of Yellow Mushrooms (with Pictures)

The vibrant yellow hues of these fungi make them unmistakable in nature. While some yellow mushrooms are prized edibles, others can be toxic or hallucinogenic. This guide will help you identify over 17 common and unique yellow mushroom varieties found throughout the United States.

Yellow Mushrooms :

Each entry includes a clear image, a brief description of the mushroom, bulleted key identifying features, and additional details about its characteristics, habitat, potential look-alikes, and edibility. Whether you’re an avid mushroom forager or simply curious about fungi in your area, this guide is a valuable resource.

Let’s dive into the colorful world of yellow mushrooms!

1. Golden Chanterelle

Golden-Chanterelle-1024x1024 16 Types of Yellow Mushrooms (with Pictures)

Here’s a short information chart about the Golden Chanterelle mushroom:

AttributeDescription
Scientific NameCantharellus cibarius
Common NameGolden Chanterelle
AppearanceYellow to orange, funnel-shaped cap, with wavy edges
HabitatDeciduous and coniferous forests, often near moss
SeasonLate summer to early autumn
EdibilityHighly prized culinary mushroom, flavorful and aromatic
Nutritional ValueLow in calories, high in protein, vitamins, and minerals
Culinary UseVersatile; can be sautéed, grilled, or used in soups
Conservation StatusGenerally stable, but vulnerable to habitat loss
CautionEnsure proper identification, may be mistaken for toxic mushrooms

Golden yellow mushrooms with ruffled caps and funnel-shaped stems.

Key Features:

  • Egg-yolk yellow caps
  • Wavy, irregular cap edges
  • Funnel-shaped hollow stems
  • Fruity, apricot aroma

Details: One of the most coveted edible mushrooms, golden chanterelles have a distinctive bright egg-yolk color and wavy caps. They have a fruity apricot smell and firm, slightly peppered flavor. Found in forests across western and eastern North America during summer and fall.

Caution: While delicious, they can cause GI issues for some. Never consume if alcohol has been consumed recently. Also, take care to avoid the inedible jack-o-lantern look-alike.

2. Chicken of the Woods

Chicken-of-the-Woods 16 Types of Yellow Mushrooms (with Pictures)

Here’s a short information chart about the Chicken of the Woods mushroom:

AttributeDescription
Scientific NameLaetiporus sulphureus
Common NameChicken of the Woods, Sulphur Shelf
AppearanceBright orange to yellow shelves, often with wavy edges
HabitatDeciduous forests, grows on hardwood trees (especially oak)
SeasonLate summer to early autumn
EdibilityEdible when young, known for its meaty texture and flavor similar to chicken
Nutritional ValueRich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals
Culinary UseCan be sautéed, fried, or used in stews and soups
Conservation StatusGenerally common, but can be overharvested
CautionMust be cooked thoroughly; some people may experience digestive upset. Avoid older specimens as they can be tough or cause allergic reactions.

Bright yellow/orange clustered brackets with pinkish-orange pores.

Key Features:

  • Clusters of overlapping, bracket-shaped caps
  • Deep yellow/orange color
  • Textured undersurface with reddish-orange pores
  • Sulfur smell when fresh

Details: This sulfur shelf mushroom gets its name from its chicken-like texture and taste when young and tender. It grows in clusters on oak and other hardwood trees, developing a leathery texture as it ages. Found throughout the U.S., it’s an edible delicacy when harvested at peak condition in late spring to early summer.

Need to slice an edge – if yellow moisture oozes out, it’s too old to consume safely.

3. Golden Oyster Mushrooms

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Here’s a short information chart about the Golden Oyster mushroom:

AttributeDescription
Scientific NamePleurotus citrinopileatus
Common NameGolden Oyster Mushroom, Yellow Oyster
AppearanceBright yellow to golden cap, with a fan-like shape; white gills
HabitatDeciduous forests, grows on dead or dying hardwood trees (especially beech and oak)
SeasonSpring to early autumn, can be cultivated year-round
EdibilityEdible, with a mild and slightly nutty flavor
Nutritional ValueLow in calories, high in protein, fiber, vitamins (especially B vitamins), and minerals
Culinary UseCan be sautéed, stir-fried, or used in soups and stews
Conservation StatusCommon, often cultivated
CautionShort shelf life; best used fresh. Some people might experience mild digestive upset.

Bright yellow clusters of fan-shaped mushroom caps.

Key Features:

  • Vivid golden-yellow color
  • Smooth, fan or oyster-shaped caps
  • Off-white or yellow gills on underside
  • Short, off-centered stems

Details: One of the most striking cultivated mushrooms, golden oysters grow in dense yellow clusters. They have a light, velvety texture and subtle flavor. Easy to grow on logs or straw, their eye-catching yellow hues make them a favorite for cooking.

Caution: While edible when cooked, they may cause digestive issues if eaten raw. Always cook oyster mushrooms thoroughly.

4. Yellow Morel

Yellow-Morel-1024x1024 16 Types of Yellow Mushrooms (with Pictures)

Here’s a short information chart about the Yellow Morel mushroom:

AttributeDescription
Scientific NameMorchella esculenta
Common NameYellow Morel, Common Morel, True Morel
AppearanceYellow to tan, honeycomb-like cap with pits and ridges; hollow inside
HabitatDeciduous forests, often found near ash, elm, and apple trees; can also be found in disturbed grounds like old orchards and burned areas
SeasonSpring
EdibilityHighly prized edible mushroom, known for its rich, earthy flavor
Nutritional ValueLow in calories, high in protein, vitamins, and minerals
Culinary UseCan be sautéed, fried, stuffed, or used in soups and sauces; must be cooked thoroughly to be safe
Conservation StatusGenerally stable, but can be overharvested in some areas
CautionEnsure proper identification, as false morels (Gyromitra species) are toxic; consume only cooked morels, as raw morels can cause gastrointestinal distress

Distinct honeycomb-pitted caps on hollow, white stems.

Key Features:

  • Honeycomb appearance on caps
  • Hollow white stems
  • Tan to yellow cap color
  • Found in early spring

Details: Highly prized for their rich, nutty flavor, yellow morels are a beloved edible mushroom found across North America each spring. Look for them popping up in old apple orchards, burned areas, and around dead elms. Be sure of your ID – false morels can be toxic.

Pro Tip: Gently slice the hollow stem to look for a white milky substance – this confirms it’s the real deal!

5. Witches’ Butter

Witches-Butter-1024x1024 16 Types of Yellow Mushrooms (with Pictures)

Here’s a short information chart about the Witches’ Butter mushroom:

AttributeDescription
Scientific NameTremella mesenterica
Common NameWitches’ Butter, Yellow Brain, Golden Jelly Fungus
AppearanceBright yellow, gelatinous, and brain-like, often forming lobes or folds
HabitatDeciduous forests, typically found on dead or decaying hardwood, especially oak and alder
SeasonYear-round, especially common in wet conditions
EdibilityEdible but bland; often used more for texture than flavor
Nutritional ValueLow in calories, contains some protein, vitamins, and minerals, but not a significant nutritional source
Culinary UseCan be used in soups, salads, or as a garnish; often used in Chinese cuisine for its texture
Conservation StatusCommon and widespread
CautionGenerally safe, but ensure proper identification as some jelly fungi can be toxic; avoid consuming if found on toxic or treated wood

Bright yellow or orange gelatinous fungal “blobs.”

Key Features:

  • Jelly-like, trembling appearance
  • Vivid yellow to orange coloring
  • Found on rotting logs or wood
  • Capable of appearing to “move”

Details: While not a true mushroom, this bizarre fungus-like organism is likely to catch your eye when out exploring! Witches’ butter is actually a slime mold that oozes over decaying wood and bark after rains. It tends to drip and pulsate, seeming to move.

Caution: While intriguing to look at, witches’ butter is inedible and may cause stomach issues if consumed.

Next up, some adorably tiny yellow mushrooms…

6. Yellow Fairy Cup

Yellow-Fairy-Cup-1024x1024 16 Types of Yellow Mushrooms (with Pictures)

Here’s a short information chart about the Yellow Fairy Cup mushroom:

AttributeDescription
Scientific NameBisporella citrina (formerly Calycina citrina)
Common NameYellow Fairy Cup, Lemon Discos
AppearanceSmall, bright yellow, cup-shaped fungi, usually less than 5 mm in diameter
HabitatDeciduous forests, commonly found on decaying wood, especially hardwoods
SeasonYear-round, but most commonly observed in autumn
EdibilityNot considered edible
Nutritional ValueNot applicable
Culinary UseNone
Conservation StatusCommon and widespread
CautionEnsure proper identification, though not toxic, it is not suitable for consumption

Miniature cup-shaped yellow fungi on stems.

Key Features:

  • Tiny yellow cup shapes
  • Grow in clusters on wood
  • Hairy stems and undersides
  • Measure just 0.5-1.5 inches tall

Details: These whimsical little fungi resemble miniature chalices or cups, growing in tight groups on rotting wood. Look closely on the forest floor during cool, damp weather to find the intricate hairy textures of yellow fairy cup mushrooms. While they are inedible, they are delightful photo subjects.

Moving along to some unique corals and clubs…

7. Yellow Stagshorn Fungus

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Here’s a short information chart about the Yellow Stagshorn fungus:

AttributeDescription
Scientific NameCalocera viscosa
Common NameYellow Stagshorn, Stag’s Horn, Yellow Antler Fungus
AppearanceBright yellow to orange, jelly-like, branching structures resembling antlers or coral
HabitatConiferous forests, typically found on decaying wood, especially pine stumps and logs
SeasonYear-round, most commonly observed in late summer to autumn
EdibilityNot considered edible due to its gelatinous texture and lack of flavor
Nutritional ValueNot applicable
Culinary UseNone
Conservation StatusCommon and widespread
CautionEnsure proper identification; although not toxic, it is not suitable for consumption

Clustered antler-like coral fungi in yellow tones.

Key Features:

  • Branching, antler-like shapes
  • Yellowish-white to golden-yellow coloring
  • Found on dead wood or stumps
  • Somewhat crustose or crust-like texture

Details: This fascinating fungus produces colonies of intricate, antler-shaped vertical projections that almost resemble miniature trees! The Yellow Stagshorn grows on decaying logs and stumps, developing an orangey-yellow or reddish crust over time. While inedible, it’s an incredible sight in nature.

8. Yellow Coral Fungus

Yellow-Coral-Fungus-1024x991 16 Types of Yellow Mushrooms (with Pictures)

Here’s a short information chart about the Yellow Coral fungus:

AttributeDescription
Scientific NameRamaria flava
Common NameYellow Coral Fungus
AppearanceBright yellow, coral-like branches, often with a bushy appearance
HabitatDeciduous and coniferous forests, typically found on the ground among leaf litter or moss
SeasonLate summer to autumn
EdibilityEdible when young, though some species of Ramaria can cause gastrointestinal upset; flavor is mild
Nutritional ValueLow in calories, some protein, vitamins, and minerals
Culinary UseCan be sautéed, added to soups, or used as a garnish; should be cooked thoroughly
Conservation StatusGenerally common, but local populations can be affected by overharvesting
CautionEnsure proper identification, as some similar-looking species within the Ramaria genus are toxic or can cause digestive issues; avoid consuming if bitter or causing a burning sensation when tasted raw

Gelatinous branching fungi resembling yellow coral.

Key Features:

  • Soft, jelly-like branches/fingers
  • Bright yellow to dull yellow color
  • Found growing on trees or wood
  • Unique textural appearance

Details: True to its name, yellow coral fungi form delicate branching structures that look like miniature yellow coral polyps. These strange fungi have a very delicate, gelatinous texture that is sensitive to drying out. While inedible, they make for incredible photographic subjects!

Let’s take a look at some brightly-colored decomposer mushrooms…

9. Yellow Meadow Mushroom

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Here’s a short information chart about the Yellow Meadow mushroom:

AttributeDescription
Scientific NameAgaricus campestris var. luteus
Common NameYellow Meadow Mushroom
AppearanceCap is convex to flat, yellowish-white to yellow; gills are pink, turning brown with age; stalk is white with a ring
HabitatMeadows, grassy areas, lawns, and pastures, often growing in fairy rings
SeasonLate summer to autumn
EdibilityEdible, with a mild flavor; similar to the common white button mushroom
Nutritional ValueLow in calories, high in protein, vitamins (especially B vitamins), and minerals
Culinary UseVersatile; can be sautéed, grilled, added to soups, stews, or salads
Conservation StatusGenerally common
CautionEnsure proper identification, as it can be confused with toxic look-alikes such as Amanita species and yellow-staining Agaricus; avoid if it stains yellow when bruised, as this indicates it may cause gastrointestinal distress

Light yellow mushrooms with scaly caps and skirt-like rings.

Key Features:

  • Pale yellow caps with brown scales
  • White stems with skirt-like rings
  • Found growing in grassy areas
  • Edible but may cause digestive upset

Details: Yellow meadow mushrooms are common “LBMs” (little brown mushrooms) found in lawns and grassy fields across most of North America. While technically edible with proper identification, their strong flavor and potential to cause GI issues make them less desirable. Still, their sunny hues add cheerful pops of color.

10. Sulfur Tuft

Sulfur-Tuft-1024x768 16 Types of Yellow Mushrooms (with Pictures)

Here’s a short information chart about the Sulfur Tuft mushroom:

AttributeDescription
Scientific NameHypholoma fasciculare
Common NameSulfur Tuft, Sulphur Tuft, Clustered Woodlover
AppearanceBright yellow to greenish-yellow caps, with darker centers; yellow gills turning greenish with age; grows in dense clusters
HabitatDeciduous and coniferous forests, commonly found on dead or decaying wood, stumps, and logs
SeasonSpring to late autumn
EdibilityInedible and toxic, causing gastrointestinal distress if consumed
Nutritional ValueNot applicable
Culinary UseNone
Conservation StatusCommon and widespread
CautionToxic; causes nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea; ensure proper identification to avoid accidental consumption

Densely clustered tiny mushrooms in shades of yellow or green.

Key Features:

  • Vivid yellow to greenish-yellow caps
  • Grow in tightly overlapping clusters
  • Found growing on trees, stumps, logs
  • Strong sulfuric or cabbage-like odor

Details: The sulfur tuft is hard to miss with its striking yellow to greenish hues and distinct rotting cabbage smell. They grow in thick clusters decomposing dead wood across North America. While inedible, these common decomposers are still fascinating up close.

11. Golden Spindle Stem

Golden-Spindle-Stem 16 Types of Yellow Mushrooms (with Pictures)

Here’s a short information chart about the Golden Spindle Stem fungus:

AttributeDescription
Scientific NameClavulinopsis fusiformis
Common NameGolden Spindle, Golden Spindle Coral
AppearanceBright yellow to orange, slender, and cylindrical or club-shaped; smooth surface
HabitatGrasslands, meadows, and lawns; grows on soil among grasses and moss
SeasonLate summer to autumn
EdibilityEdible, but not commonly consumed; flavor is mild
Nutritional ValueLow in calories, contains some protein, vitamins, and minerals
Culinary UseCan be used as a garnish or in salads, but often overlooked due to small size and scarcity
Conservation StatusGenerally common, but local populations can vary
CautionEnsure proper identification; although not toxic, it is not widely regarded as a choice edible due to its texture and size

Orange to yellow mushrooms with club-shaped stems.

Key Features:

  • Bright orange to golden yellow caps
  • Thickened club or spindle-like stems
  • White gills
  • Found growing in clusters on wood

Details: Golden spindle stems sprout in dense clusters on rotting stumps and logs. Their thickened, club-like yellow stems make them look like miniature mushroom lollipops or sea creatures! While inedible, their alien shapes and bright coloring make them fun to stumble across during forest walks.

Continuing on with some unique Amanita mushrooms…

12. Yellow Patches Amanita

Yellow-Patches-Amanita-845x1024 16 Types of Yellow Mushrooms (with Pictures)

Here’s a short information chart about the Yellow Patches Amanita:

AttributeDescription
Scientific NameAmanita flavoconia
Common NameYellow Patches Amanita
AppearanceCap is yellow to orange-yellow with patches or flecks of yellow or orange scales; stem is white with a bulbous base
HabitatDeciduous and coniferous forests, often found near trees, especially oak and pine
SeasonSummer to autumn
EdibilityGenerally considered inedible or poisonous, potentially causing severe gastrointestinal symptoms
Nutritional ValueNot applicable
Culinary UseNot recommended for consumption
Conservation StatusGenerally common, but should be avoided due to toxicity risks
CautionHighly toxic; can cause severe poisoning if ingested; avoid consumption and ensure proper identification

Large white mushroom with patchy yellow cap and stem ring.

Key Features:

  • White cap with bright yellow patches
  • Large ring on white stem
  • Found under hardwood trees
  • Potentially toxic

Details: This striking Amanita produces a large white mushroom cap decorated with vibrant yellow to orange patches. It has a skirt-like ring on its stem and grows under oaks, maples, and other hardwoods. While its color pattern is beautiful, all Amanitas should be treated as potentially toxic and avoided.

13. Yellow Fringed Amanita

Yellow-Fringed-Amanita-1024x1024 16 Types of Yellow Mushrooms (with Pictures)

Here’s a short information chart about the Yellow Fringed Amanita:

AttributeDescription
Scientific NameAmanita gemmata
Common NameYellow Fringed Amanita
AppearanceCap is initially egg-shaped and white, developing yellowish-brown patches with age; stem is white with a distinct ring and bulbous base
HabitatDeciduous and mixed forests, often found near trees, especially birch and conifers
SeasonSummer to autumn
EdibilityGenerally considered poisonous, potentially causing severe gastrointestinal symptoms
Nutritional ValueNot applicable
Culinary UseNot edible
Conservation StatusGenerally common, but should be avoided due to toxicity risks
CautionHighly toxic; ingestion can cause severe poisoning; avoid consumption and ensure proper identification

Golden mushroom with scaly rings and patches on stem.

Key Features:

  • Rich yellow to orange-yellow cap
  • Yellow scales and rings on stem
  • White spore print
  • Lives symbiotically with trees

Details: You’ll find these golden yellow mushrooms growing at the base of oak and pine trees. Their yellow caps contrast beautifully against the fibrous rings and patches scattered up their stems. While they can cause digestive issues if eaten raw, some cultures do consume them parboiled or with treatment.

Last but not least, some unique Boletes and related species…

14. Yellow Staining Fungus

Yellow-Staining-Fungus 16 Types of Yellow Mushrooms (with Pictures)

Here’s a short information chart about it:

AttributeDescription
Scientific NameAgaricus xanthodermus
Common NameYellow Staining Mushroom
AppearanceCap initially white, turning yellow when bruised or cut; gills are pink when young, turning dark brown with age; stem is white with a yellowish base
HabitatOften found in grassy areas, lawns, and cultivated fields
SeasonSpring to autumn
EdibilityGenerally considered inedible due to potential toxicity; can cause gastrointestinal distress if consumed
Nutritional ValueNot applicable
Culinary UseNot recommended for consumption
Conservation StatusGenerally common, but should be avoided due to toxicity risks
CautionCan cause severe gastrointestinal symptoms if ingested; avoid consumption and ensure proper identification

Dull brown mushroom that stains yellow when cut or bruised.

Key Features:

  • Pale brown cap and stem
  • Bright yellow staining if bruised
  • Grows solitary on ground
  • Edible but poor flavor

Details: This LBM doesn’t look like much until sliced! Then its dull brown flesh instantly turns vivid yellow when exposed to air. This “bluing” reaction helps identify many species of Boletes. While technically edible, the yellow stainer has an unpleasant odor and bitter taste, so it’s mainly one to know for proper ID.

15. Admirable Bolete

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Here’s a short information chart about the Admirable Bolete mushroom:

AttributeDescription
Scientific NameBoletus mirabilis
Common NameAdmirable Bolete
AppearanceCap is reddish-brown to chestnut, with a velvety texture when young, becoming smoother with age; pores are yellow, bruising blue when injured; stem is thick, often with reddish hues and a net-like pattern near the top
HabitatMixed forests, often found under hardwood trees, especially oaks and beeches
SeasonSummer to autumn
EdibilityGenerally considered edible and choice, with a mild and nutty flavor
Nutritional ValueContains protein, vitamins, and minerals
Culinary UseHighly prized for culinary purposes, can be sautéed, grilled, or used in soups and stews
Conservation StatusGenerally stable, but overharvesting can affect local populations
CautionEnsure proper identification, as some boletes can be toxic; avoid specimens with a bitter taste or those showing signs of decay

Large yellow bolete mushroom with red pores and reticulated stem.

Key Features:

  • Golden yellow cap color
  • Red pores instead of gills
  • Thick reticulated (netted) stem
  • Found in eastern hardwood forests

Details: Living up to its name, the admirable bolete is a real beauty with its bright yellow cap fading to orange near the red pore surface. It has a thick stem covered in a netlike reticulated pattern. A choice edible mushroom found in eastern U.S. hardwood forests.

Prized for its seafood-like taste and soft, spongy texture, this bolete is a favorite among mushroomers!

16. Butterscotch Bolete

Butterscotch-Bolete-1024x768 16 Types of Yellow Mushrooms (with Pictures)

Here’s a short information chart about the Butterscotch Bolete mushroom:

AttributeDescription
Scientific NameSuillus granulatus
Common NameButterscotch Bolete
AppearanceCap is sticky and slimy when wet, ranging from butterscotch to reddish-brown in color; pores are yellow and angular; stem is yellow and covered in small granules
HabitatConiferous forests, often found under pine trees
SeasonSummer to autumn
EdibilityGenerally considered edible, though not highly prized due to its slimy texture and mild flavor
Nutritional ValueContains protein, vitamins, and minerals
Culinary UseCan be used in soups and stews, but is often regarded as less desirable compared to other edible mushrooms
Conservation StatusGenerally stable, but overharvesting can affect local populations
CautionEnsure proper identification to distinguish from potentially toxic boletes; avoid specimens showing signs of decay or those with a strong odor

Buttery yellow mushroom that stains blue and bruises reddish.

Key Features:

  • Rich yellow-orange color
  • Instantly bruises reddish-orange
  • Stains vivid blue when cut
  • Grows under pines out west

Details: The buttery butterscotch color of this western bolete makes it a standout. When cut, its flesh immediately turns a bold blue (oxidizing) and bruises a rusty reddish-orange. Found growing in pine forests, it has a pleasant taste when harvested young and firm.

With their unique staining reactions and rich hues, I just love all the colorful bolete varieties!

Closing Thoughts

From common woodland fungi to intricate, brightly colored coral mushrooms, the world of yellow mushrooms is truly fascinating! While some varieties are choice edibles, proper identification is crucial – many look-alikes exist or can cause digestive issues if misidentified.

I’d encourage beginners to join a local mushroom club for guidance before consuming wild mushrooms. Start building your ID skills by appreciating the beauty and diversity these fungi bring to nature. With a good field guide, close inspection, and a healthy dose of caution, the vibrant yellow hues will certainly brighten your outdoor adventures.

Whether you stumble upon golden oyster clusters, radiant yellow chanterelles, or bizarre witches’ butter slimes, each discovery is a small treasure. Keep exploring the incredible kingdom of fungi – you never know what incredible yellow mushroom might be awaiting just around the next bend on the trail!

Did any of the mushrooms featured pique your interest? Let me know if you need any other details or have additional mushroom identification questions.

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