Mushby LogoMushby
Fieldcap Mushroom (Agrocybe)

Fieldcap Mushroom

Toxic

Agrocybe

Also known as: Chestnut Mushroom

Got a photo? Identify mushrooms instantly with the Mushby app

Open the app

Description

Agrocybe is a genus of mushrooms in the family Strophariaceae. The genus has a widespread distribution, and contains about 100 species. Agrocybe species are typically found in grassy areas, fields, and meadows. They are saprophytic, meaning they obtain nutrients from decaying organic matter. Some species are edible, while others are poisonous.

How to Identify

Cap
Smooth, brown to tan, may be slightly sticky when moist.
Gills
Adnate to adnexed, close, and initially pale, becoming brown with age.
Stem
White to tan, smooth to fibrous, may have a fragile ring or ring zone.
Flesh
White to cream-colored, may have a mild or slightly farinaceous odor.
Fruiting body
Typically medium-sized, with a convex to flattened cap.
Habitat
Grassy areas, fields, meadows, and disturbed soil.

Key Facts

  • Cap surfaces: Smooth
  • Growth Form: Solitary to clustered
  • Spore Print: Brown
  • Body color: Brown, Tan, White
  • Odor: Mild or slightly farinaceous
  • Flesh bruises: No bruising
  • Height: 3-10 cm
  • Cap Diameter: 2-8 cm
  • Nutrient gathering: Saprophytic

Toxic

Mild Toxicity

Some Agrocybe species contain toxins that can cause gastrointestinal upset. It is essential to properly identify the mushroom before consumption.

Reaction Type: Gastrointestinal distress

Quick Check

  • Odor: Mild or slightly farinaceous
  • Fruiting: Spring to Autumn
  • Substrate: Grass, soil

Where to Find

Grassland

Agrocybe typically grows in grassy areas, fields, and meadows.

Disturbed Soil

They can also be found in disturbed soil, such as along roadsides or in gardens.

Finding Tips

Cap and Stem

Look for mushrooms with a smooth, brown cap and a white to tan stem.

Habitat

Check grassy areas, fields, and meadows, especially after rain.

Caution

Be aware that some Agrocybe species are poisonous, so proper identification is essential.

Similar Species

Funeral Bell

Galerina marginata

Also known as: Deadly Galerina

Scientific Classification

Phylum
Basidiomycota
Class
Agaricomycetes
Order
Agaricales
Family
Strophariaceae
Genus
Agrocybe

Explore Fieldcap Mushroom

Identify mushrooms anywhere

Free on iOS, Android, and Web. Photo identification, full database, and your personal collection.

Open in app