How to identify Fieldcap Mushroom

To correctly identify Fieldcap Mushroom (Agrocybe), 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.

   Smooth, brown to tan, may be slightly sticky when moist.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   Adnate to adnexed, close, and initially pale, becoming brown with age.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   White to tan, smooth to fibrous, may have a fragile ring or ring zone.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   White to cream-colored, may have a mild or slightly farinaceous odor.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   Typically medium-sized, with a convex to flattened cap.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   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

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Adnate to adnexed
• Stem shape: Cylindrical
• Stem surface: Smooth to fibrous
• Ring: May have a fragile ring or ring zone
• Stem cross-section: Solid

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