How to identify Pink Spored Agaric

To correctly identify Pink Spored Agaric (Pluteus petasatus), 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.

   Silky, smooth, and convex, becoming flattened with age. Color ranges from whitish to grayish-brown.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   Free, close, and pinkish in color due to the spores.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   White to grayish, smooth, and lacks a ring or volva.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   White, does not change color when cut.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   Medium-sized mushroom with a distinct cap and stem.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Grows on decaying wood, often on logs or branches.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Silky, Smooth

Growth Form

Solitary or in small groups

Spore Print

Pink

Body color

White to Grayish-Brown

Odor

Mild or indistinct

Flesh bruises

No bruising

Height

5-20 cm

Cap Diameter

5-15 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Free
• Stem shape: Cylindrical
• Stem surface: Smooth or Silky
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: Solid

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