How to identify Haymaker's Fungi

To correctly identify Haymaker's Fungi (Panaeolus foenisecii), 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 hemispherical to convex, becoming more flattened with age. It is typically smooth and moist, with a color ranging from tan to brown, often fading to a lighter color as it dries. The cap margin may be slightly inrolled when young.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   The gills are adnate to adnexed, close to crowded, and brownish in color. A key characteristic is that the gills are mottled, meaning they have dark spots or patches, especially as they mature. This mottling is due to uneven maturation of the spores.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   The stem is slender, typically 3 to 7 cm long and 2 to 4 mm thick. It is usually straight and cylindrical, with a color similar to the cap or slightly lighter. The stem surface is smooth and lacks a ring or volva.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is thin and brownish in color.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   The fruiting body is typically small, with a cap ranging from 1 to 3 cm in diameter. The overall appearance is that of a typical agaric mushroom.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Panaeolus foenisecii is commonly found in lawns, meadows, pastures, and other grassy areas. It is saprotrophic, meaning it obtains nutrients from decaying organic matter. It often appears after rain or during periods of high humidity.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Smooth, moist

Growth Form

Solitary to gregarious

Spore Print

Black

Body color

Tan to brown

Odor

Farinaceous or indistinct

Flesh bruises

Does not typically bruise

Height

3-7 cm

Cap Diameter

1-3 cm

Fruit body characteristics

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

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