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The Parasol Mushroom (Macrolepiota procera) is a choice edible mushroom prized for its large size and distinctive appearance. It is found in grasslands, pastures, and open woods. It is important to positively identify this mushroom to avoid confusion with poisonous look-alikes.
How to Identify
- Cap
- The cap is large, typically 10-30 cm in diameter, and initially spherical, becoming convex to flattened with a prominent umbo (a central bump). The surface is covered in brownish scales that are more concentrated towards the center, giving it a shaggy appearance. The background color is whitish to cream.
- Gills
- The gills are free (not attached to the stem), crowded, and white to cream-colored. They may develop a slightly greenish tint with age.
- Stem
- The stem is tall and slender, typically 15-40 cm long and 1-2.5 cm thick. It is hollow and has a snakeskin-like pattern of brownish scales. A distinctive, movable ring is present on the stem.
- Flesh
- The flesh is white and does not change color when bruised.
- Fruiting body
- The fruiting body of Macrolepiota procera is large and striking, making it a memorable find in the field.
- Habitat
- Macrolepiota procera is found in grasslands, pastures, and open woods, often in areas with well-drained soil. It typically fruits from late summer to autumn.
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: Brownish scales on a whitish background
- Growth Form: Solitary or in small groups
- Spore Print: White
- Body color: White to cream with brownish scales
- Odor: Pleasant, mushroomy
- Flesh bruises: Does not change color
- Height: 15-40 cm
- Cap Diameter: 10-30 cm
- Nutrient gathering: Saprobic
Safe
SafeMacrolepiota procera is considered edible and choice, but it is crucial to positively identify it to avoid confusion with poisonous look-alikes, such as Chlorophyllum molybdites and other Chlorophyllum species.
Quick Check
- Odor: Pleasant, mushroomy
- Fruiting: Late summer to autumn
- Substrate: Grasslands, pastures, open woods
Where to Find
Grasslands and Pastures
Look for Parasol Mushrooms in open grasslands and pastures where they can grow to a large size.
Open Woods
They can also be found in open woods, especially along edges and clearings.
Finding Tips
Check After Rain
Parasol Mushrooms often appear after periods of rain, when conditions are moist.
Look for Solitary Specimens
They are often found as solitary specimens or in small groups, rather than in large clusters.
Similar Species
Shaggy Parasol
mushroom
Also known as: Chlorophyllum rhacodes
Green-spored Parasol
mushroom
Also known as: Chlorophyllum molybdites
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Basidiomycota
- Class
- Agaricomycetes
- Order
- Agaricales
- Family
- Agaricaceae
- Genus
- Macrolepiota
Storage Information
- Max Temperature: 2
- Freezing duration: 2-3 months
- Min Temperature: -2
- Refrigeration: 2-3 days
How to Clean
To clean Parasol Mushrooms, gently brush off any dirt or debris from the cap and stem. Avoid washing them unless necessary, as they can absorb water and become soggy. If washing is required, do so quickly and pat them dry immediately.
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