How to identify Horse Mushroom

To correctly identify Horse Mushroom (Agaricus arvensis), check each of these features in order. Misidentification is the most common cause of mushroom poisoning, so cross-reference multiple sources.

Step-by-step identification

1. 1

   Cap

   Shape, color, surface texture, and diameter.

   White to cream-colored, smooth, and can become slightly yellowish with age. It starts convex and flattens out. The cap surface may bruise yellowish.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   Free from the stem, starting pinkish and maturing to chocolate brown or black.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   White, stout, with a prominent ring. The stem base may be slightly bulbous.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   White, bruising slightly yellowish when cut or damaged. Has a characteristic anise-like smell.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   Large and fleshy, typically 10-20 cm in diameter.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Fields, meadows, and grassy areas, often in rings or groups. Typically fruits in late summer and autumn.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Smooth

Growth Form

Solitary or in groups

Spore Print

Chocolate brown

Body color

White to cream

Odor

Anise-like

Flesh bruises

Slightly yellowish

Height

5-15 cm

Cap Diameter

10-20 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Free
• Stem shape: Cylindrical
• Stem surface: Smooth
• Ring: Present, single
• Stem cross-section: Solid

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