How to identify Wood Mushroom

To correctly identify Wood Mushroom (Agaricus silvaticus), 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, convex to flattened, and covered with reddish-brown scales. The cap surface can be dry to slightly sticky.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   The gills are free from the stem, starting pinkish and maturing to brown or chocolate-brown.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   The stem is cylindrical, 5-8 cm long and 1-2 cm thick, with a ring. The stem bruises reddish-brown when handled.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is white, bruising reddish-brown when cut or damaged.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   The fruiting body of Agaricus silvaticus is a mushroom with a cap and stem.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Agaricus silvaticus is found in deciduous and coniferous woodlands, often near rotting wood. It fruits from summer to autumn.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Reddish-brown scales

Growth Form

Solitary or in small groups

Spore Print

Chocolate-brown

Body color

White, bruising reddish-brown

Odor

Mushroomy, pleasant

Flesh bruises

Reddish-brown

Height

5-8 cm

Cap Diameter

5-10 cm

Fruit body characteristics

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

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