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Parasola plicatilis, commonly known as the pleated inkcap, is a small, fragile mushroom characterized by its radially grooved cap and deliquescing gills. It is often found in grassy areas and lawns after rainfall.
How to Identify
- Cap
- Initially oval, expanding to convex or flat with radial grooves. Color ranges from tan to grayish-brown, fading as it dries. Diameter typically 1-4 cm.
- Gills
- Free, closely spaced, and deliquescing (dissolving into a black, inky liquid) as they mature.
- Stem
- Thin, hollow, and fragile. White to pale brown in color, smooth. Typically 3-8 cm long and 1-2 mm thick.
- Flesh
- Thin and fragile.
- Fruiting body
- Small and delicate, typically appearing after rain.
- Habitat
- Grows in grassy areas, lawns, and meadows. Often found after rainfall. Saprobic, feeding on decaying organic matter.
Key Facts
- Cap surfaces: Radially grooved
- Growth Form: Saprobic
- Spore Print: Black
- Body color: Tan to grayish-brown
- Odor: Mild
- Flesh bruises: No bruising
- Height: 3-8 cm
- Cap Diameter: 1-4 cm
- Nutrient gathering: Decomposer
Safe
SafeGenerally considered non-toxic, but not typically consumed due to its small size and insubstantial flesh.
Quick Check
- Odor: Mild or indistinct.
- Fruiting: Solitary or in small groups.
- Substrate: Grass, decaying organic matter.
Where to Find
Lawns and Gardens
Commonly found in well-maintained grassy areas.
Meadows
Can be found in open grassy fields, especially after rain.
Finding Tips
Look After Rain
Search for them in grassy areas a day or two after rainfall.
Check Grassy Areas
Inspect lawns, meadows, and other grassy habitats.
Similar Species
Fairy Ring Mushroom
mushroom
Also known as: Marasmius oreades
Scientific Classification
- Phylum
- Basidiomycota
- Class
- Agaricomycetes
- Order
- Agaricales
- Family
- Psathyrellaceae
- Genus
- Parasola
Storage Information
- Max Temperature: N/A
- Freezing duration: N/A
- Min Temperature: 2-4°C
- Refrigeration: Not recommended due to its fragile nature; best consumed immediately.
How to Clean
Not typically cleaned due to its small size and fragility. If necessary, gently brush off any debris.
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