How to identify Meadow Mushroom

To correctly identify Meadow Mushroom (Agaricus campestris), 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.

   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.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   The gills are free from the stem, closely spaced, and initially pink, turning brown and eventually dark brown with age.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   The stem is short, stout, and white to pale brown. It has a ring that may be fragile and disappear with maturity.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is white and may bruise slightly pinkish. It has a mild, pleasant odor when young.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   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.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   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

Fruit body characteristics

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

Explore Meadow Mushroom