How to identify Poplar Fieldcap

To correctly identify Poplar Fieldcap (Agrocybe aegerita), 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 of the poplar fieldcap ranges from 3 to 10 cm in diameter. It is typically convex when young, becoming flattened with age. The color varies from creamy white to light brown, often with a slightly darker center. The surface is smooth and dry, and the margin may be slightly incurved when young.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   The gills are adnate to slightly decurrent, meaning they are attached to the stem and may run slightly down it. They are crowded and initially white, turning grayish-brown to brown as the spores mature.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   The stem is cylindrical, typically 4 to 10 cm long and 0.5 to 1.5 cm thick. It is usually white to pale brown and has a fibrous texture. A ring or annulus is present on the upper part of the stem, which may be fragile and disappear with age.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh of Agrocybe aegerita is firm and white. It does not change color when bruised or cut.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   The fruiting body of Agrocybe aegerita typically has a convex to flattened cap and a cylindrical stem. The overall appearance is that of a medium-sized mushroom with a pleasant aroma.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Agrocybe aegerita grows on dead or living trees, particularly poplars (Populus species), willows (Salix species), and elms (Ulmus species). It is often found in clusters on the trunks or branches of these trees. It is a saprophytic fungus, meaning it obtains nutrients from decaying organic matter.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Smooth, dry

Growth Form

Clustered

Spore Print

Brown

Body color

White to light brown

Odor

Pleasant

Flesh bruises

No

Height

4-10 cm

Cap Diameter

3-10 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Adnate to slightly decurrent
• Stem shape: Cylindrical
• Stem surface: Fibrous
• Ring: Present, fragile
• Stem cross-section: Solid

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