How to identify Lepista nuda

To correctly identify Lepista nuda (Lepista nuda), 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.

   Convex to flat, often with a wavy margin. Color ranges from lilac to purplish-brown.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   Closely spaced, adnate (attached to the stem), and lilac to purplish.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   Cylindrical, often slightly bulbous at the base, and lilac to purplish.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   Thick, firm, and pale lilac to purplish.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   Large, fleshy mushroom with a distinct stem and cap.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Found in woodlands, often in clusters near decaying wood or leaf litter.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Smooth, slightly sticky when moist

Growth Form

Clustered

Spore Print

Pinkish-brown

Body color

Lilac to purplish-brown

Odor

Slightly sweet or earthy

Flesh bruises

Does not bruise significantly

Height

5-15 cm

Cap Diameter

5-15 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Adnate
• Stem shape: Cylindrical
• Stem surface: Smooth
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: Solid

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