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Agaricus campestris, commonly known as the Meadow Mushroom or Field Mushroom, is a widely distributed edible mushroom favored for its flavor. It is often found in grassy areas and fields after rainfall. The cap is typically white to pale brown, smooth, and can be slightly scaly. The gills are initially pink, turning brown with age. The stem is short and stout, with a ring that may disappear with maturity. It's important to differentiate it from toxic look-alikes.
How to Identify
- Cap
- The cap is typically 5-10 cm in diameter, white to pale brown, smooth, and can be slightly scaly. It is convex when young, flattening out with age.
- Gills
- The gills are free from the stem, closely spaced, and initially pink, turning brown and eventually dark brown with age.
- Stem
- The stem is short, stout, and white to pale brown. It has a ring that may be fragile and disappear with maturity.
- Flesh
- The flesh is white and may bruise slightly pinkish. It has a mild, pleasant odor when young.
- Fruiting body
- The fruiting body of Agaricus campestris is a mushroom with a cap and stem. The overall size can vary, but it's generally a medium-sized mushroom.
- Habitat
- It grows in grassy areas, fields, and meadows, often after rainfall. It is saprobic, meaning it obtains nutrients from decaying organic matter.
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: Smooth, slightly scaly
- Growth Form: Solitary or in groups
- Spore Print: Chocolate brown
- Body color: White to pale brown
- Odor: Mild, mushroomy
- Flesh bruises: Slightly pinkish
- Height: 3-8 cm
- Cap Diameter: 5-10 cm
- Nutrient gathering: Saprobic
Safe
SafeAgaricus campestris is generally considered edible, but it can be confused with toxic look-alikes, such as Agaricus xanthodermus (Yellow Stainer), which causes gastrointestinal upset. Always ensure proper identification before consumption.
Quick Check
- Odor: Mild, mushroomy
- Fruiting: Late summer to autumn
- Substrate: Grassland
Where to Find
Grassy Fields
Look for it in open grassy fields, especially after rain.
Meadows
It can be found in meadows and pastures.
Finding Tips
Check After Rain
Meadow Mushrooms often appear after periods of rain.
Look in Open Areas
They prefer open, grassy areas with plenty of sunlight.
Similar Species
Agaricus xanthodermus
Agaricus
Also known as: Yellow Stainer
Amanita bisporigera
Amanita
Also known as: Destroying Angel
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Basidiomycota
- Class
- Agaricomycetes
- Order
- Agaricales
- Family
- Agaricaceae
- Genus
- Agaricus
Storage Information
- Max Temperature: 2°C
- Freezing duration: 3 months
- Min Temperature: -20°C
- Refrigeration: 3-4 days
How to Clean
Clean Agaricus campestris by gently brushing off any dirt or debris. Avoid soaking them in water, as they can become waterlogged. A soft brush or a damp cloth works well.
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