Death Cap

The Death Cap mushroom is found only in a cave northwest of The Settlement. The Settlement farms the mushrooms in the Cave of the Deep for one of its few exports. While the Death Cap is poisonous when eaten, it has magical properties when put in the Beauty Salve.
The Death Cap grows in approximately a month, and it grows year round. The cave where they grow is typically harvested monthly for this reason. This is no small feat, as the Cave of the Deep is not empty.
The Death Cap must be harvested with care. The mushroom should be severed as close to the cave floor as possible, to ensure as much of the specimen is retrieved. When it is touched, the mushroom will release noxious spores which are poisonous to most creatures. Therefore, one must either let the spores dissipate or move immediately away from the area with the specimen in hand.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Small (no more than 3" tall), black on the top, white on the bottom. The bell of the mushroom is tall and narrow, comprising approximately half of the mushroom's height.

Genetics and Reproduction

As a fungus, this species of mushroom reproduces asexually by fragmenting and producing spores.

Growth Rate & Stages

The mushroom grows from spore to mushroom in the course of a month.

Ecology and Habitats

Underground, dark, moist.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Consumes organic matter left on the floor of the cave.

Biological Cycle

As it grows underground, the environment does not change from month to month. Therefore the mushroom grows continually throughout the year, regardless of the weather outside.

Additional Information

Uses, Products & Exploitation

This mushroom is shaved and dried, then put in the Beauty Salve that is sold to traveling merchants.

Geographic Origin and Distribution

Only in the Cave of the Deep.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

The mushroom is mundane and has no sensory capabilities. The release of spores is on a mechanical trigger.

Scientific Name

Death Cap

Conservation Status

The Settlement is careful to not over-collect the Death Cap; they conserve the species to ensure that future generations have access to the valuable fungus.

Average Height

3 inches