Amanita subcokeri

Common Name: False Coker's Lepidella

Synonyms:

Substrate: Ground

Location: Hardwood Forests

Spore Color: White

Gill Color: White to cream

Comments: 

This mushroom is very similar to Amanita cokeri. The only difference is that it stains red when handled, primarily around the bulb. Whichever one you find, it is always going to be a great find. They are large and impressive mushrooms. There are several other things to look for to get an ID. 

First would be a basal bulb that will often have scales starting to peel back right above it. Secondly, there should be large, pointy scales on the surface of the cap. Sometimes the scales will turn browninsh. Finally, both of these mushrooms often have a double ring, that is very elaborate in its structure. Once you find it, you will understand what I am talking about.

Lookalikes:  

Amanita cokeri does not stain red. Amanita spissa var. alba has yellow-green colorations to the cap.

Pictures:

9/20/12 - Morgan Monroe State Forest - Morgan County, IN

8/28/12 - Shades State Park - Rockville, In

9/10/12 - Griffey Woods - Bloomington, IN

9/11/12 - Paynetown SRA - Bloomington, IN