Learn how to identify 2 common summertime mushroom species. First up is the pinecone Amanita (Amanita ravenelii, also called Ravenel's Amanita). This giant, creamy-colored species smells strongly of chlorine and has durable, pyramid shaped scales on the cap. Amanita ravenelii has a bulbous, nearly carrot-shaped base with vertical splits and some faint reddish staining.

Next is the the golden reishi (Ganoderma curtisii). This native reishi species grows all over the Southeastern US, and its attractive yellow-gold cap, varnished red-brown stem, and porous white undersurface makes it easily recognizable and a great mushroom for beginners seeking to learn more about polypore mushrooms in general.