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The Fairy Ring Mushroom (Marasmius oreades) is a small, common grassland mushroom known for its association with fairy rings. It is edible and sought after, but care must be taken to avoid confusion with poisonous look-alikes.
How to Identify
- Cap
- The cap is typically 2-5 cm in diameter, convex to flattened, and has a central bump (umbo). The color ranges from tan to buff, and it fades to pale when dry. The surface is smooth and dry.
- Gills
- The gills are widely spaced, adnate to free, and cream-colored. They do not deliquesce (dissolve into ink).
- Stem
- The stem is tough, slender, and cartilaginous, with a color similar to the cap or paler. It is smooth and lacks a ring.
- Flesh
- The flesh is thin, pliant, and has a mild, pleasant odor.
- Fruiting body
- The fruiting body is small and has a distinctive cap and stem.
- Habitat
- Found in grassy areas, lawns, meadows, and pastures, often forming fairy rings.
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: Smooth, dry
- Growth Form: Agaricoid
- Spore Print: White
- Body color: Tan, buff
- Odor: Mild, almond-like
- Flesh bruises: No bruising
- Height: 2-7 cm
- Cap Diameter: 2-5 cm
- Nutrient gathering: Saprophytic
Safe
SafeMarasmius oreades is edible, but it can be confused with poisonous species, especially Clitocybe species. Proper identification is crucial.
Quick Check
- Odor: Mild, almond-like
- Fruiting: Solitary to gregarious, often in rings
- Substrate: Grasslands
Where to Find
Grasslands
Common in grassy areas such as lawns, meadows, and pastures.
Fairy Rings
Often found growing in circular patterns known as fairy rings.
Finding Tips
Look for Rings
Search for circular patterns of mushrooms in grassy areas.
Check Grasslands
Inspect lawns, meadows, and pastures, especially after rain.
Similar Species
Clitocybe dealbata
gilled mushroom
Also known as: Ivory Funnel
Clitocybe rivulosa
gilled mushroom
Also known as: Fool's Funnel
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Basidiomycota
- Class
- Agaricomycetes
- Order
- Agaricales
- Family
- Marasmiaceae
- Genus
- Marasmius
Storage Information
- Max Temperature: 2°C
- Freezing duration: 3 months
- Min Temperature: -18°C
- Refrigeration: 3-5 days
How to Clean
Brush off any dirt or debris. Wipe gently with a damp cloth if necessary. Avoid soaking in water.
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