How to identify Agrocybe praecox

To correctly identify Agrocybe praecox (Agrocybe praecox), 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 2-6 cm in diameter, smooth, and varies in color from tan to brown. It is convex when young, becoming more flattened with age.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   The gills are closely spaced, adnate to adnexed, and start as a pale color, darkening to a brownish color as the spores mature.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   The stem is typically 3-8 cm long and 0.5-1 cm thick, smooth to slightly fibrous, and often has a ring.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is whitish to pale brown and does not change color when cut.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   The fruiting body is generally medium-sized with a smooth cap and a stem that may have a ring.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Grows in grassy areas, woodlands, and disturbed soil.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Smooth

Growth Form

Solitary to scattered

Spore Print

Brown

Body color

Tan to brown

Odor

Farinaceous (like flour or meal)

Flesh bruises

No bruising

Height

3-8 cm

Cap Diameter

2-6 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Adnate to adnexed
• Stem shape: Cylindrical
• Stem surface: Smooth to slightly fibrous
• Ring: Present, but may be fragile and disappear with age
• Stem cross-section: Solid

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