How to identify Lemon Parasol

To correctly identify Lemon Parasol (Leucocoprinus birnbaumii), 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 initially oval or bell-shaped, expanding to become convex with age. It is typically 2-5 cm in diameter and covered in powdery or granular scales, giving it a textured appearance. The color is a vibrant yellow, which may fade to pale yellow or whitish with age.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   The gills are free, meaning they do not attach to the stem. They are closely spaced and white to pale yellow in color.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   The stem is slender and cylindrical, typically 5-10 cm long and 0.5-1 cm thick. It is hollow and brittle, with a smooth or slightly powdery surface. The color is pale yellow, often with a slightly darker base. A fragile, yellowish ring may be present on the upper part of the stem, but it often disappears with age.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is thin and fragile, with a pale yellow color. It does not have a distinctive odor or taste.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   The fruiting body is small to medium-sized, typically reaching a height of 5-10 cm. It is characterized by its bright yellow color, which can fade with age.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Leucocoprinus birnbaumii is commonly found in greenhouses, flowerpots, and other indoor environments with warm, humid conditions. It grows in soil or compost rich in organic matter. It is a cosmopolitan species, found worldwide in tropical and subtropical regions, and occasionally in temperate areas.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Powdery or granular scales

Growth Form

Saprophytic

Spore Print

White

Body color

Bright Yellow

Odor

Not Distinctive

Flesh bruises

Does not typically bruise

Height

5-10 cm

Cap Diameter

2-5 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Free
• Stem shape: Cylindrical
• Stem surface: Smooth or slightly powdery
• Ring: Fragile, yellowish, often disappears with age
• Stem cross-section: Hollow

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