⚠ If you suspect ingestion of this species, call Poison Control immediately:
1-800-222-1222 (US) · poison.org

Bitter Oyster

Panellus stipticus

— Non-Edible

Do not eat — not considered edible; may be used medicinally or for study only

Habitat: hardwood stumps and logs
Peak season: Year-round

Key Identification Features

Small kidney-shaped cap
crowded gills
short stubby lateral stem
grows in clusters on hardwood stumps
bioluminescent gills glow faintly green in darkness
extremely bitter taste

Symptoms & Toxicity

Extremely bitter and astringent; not known to cause systemic toxicity

Regions Found

Northeast

Look-Alikes

No documented look-alikes on record.

Safety disclaimer: This page is for educational purposes only. Never eat a wild mushroom based solely on online information. Always verify identification using multiple reliable field guides and, when possible, consult an experienced forager or mycologist. When in doubt, don't eat it. Spore & Scout accepts no responsibility for identification errors or adverse reactions. If you believe someone has ingested a toxic mushroom, call Poison Control (1-800-222-1222) immediately.