The Panther Mushroom (Amanita Pantherinoides) grows on the ground near conifers trees. They are uncommon on Vancouver Island but can be found if you look. They are medium-sized Amanitas with a slender form. The stem is usually longer than the cap is wide. This mushroom is usually found with conifer trees in natural areas but has adapted to grow in urban parks on the south island.
Until recently the Panther Mushroom of the Pacific region of North America was thought to be the same as Amanita pantherina that grows in Europe. Now we know that we have our own species right here in the Pacific Northwest. It has been named Amanita pantherinoides, it was first described near Seattle Washington in 1912.
The Panther Mushroom has been a major player when it comes to mushroom poisoning in BC and the Pacific Northwest. There have been many poisonings on Vancouver Island in regard to this mushroom, it will bring on a sense of inebriation, and because of its inebriating properties, it has the distinction of being among the few poisonous mushrooms sought out and eaten intentionally for its toxic effects.