What is the scientific name of the classic red mushroom with white spots?

The scientific name of the classic red mushroom with white spots is Amanita muscaria. Commonly called the fly agaric or fly amanita, it is one of the world’s most recognizable mushrooms.

Its bright red cap is typically covered with white wart-like patches, which are remnants of the universal veil that enclosed the young mushroom. As the cap expands, it changes from rounded to nearly flat; rain and age can wash away the spots or fade the red color. The mushroom usually has white gills, a ring on the stem, and a bulbous base with remnants of a volva.

Amanita muscaria is poisonous and psychoactive, containing compounds such as ibotenic acid and muscimol. It has a long history in folklore and traditional use across parts of Eurasia, and its striking appearance has influenced popular depictions of mushrooms, fantasy art, and video games.

It is often confused with Amanita caesarea, an edible orange-red species. A. caesarea lacks the characteristic white warts and has yellow gills, stem, and ring. The white spots on A. muscaria may disappear after heavy rain, so identification should never rely on color alone.