How to identify Verdigris Agaric

To correctly identify Verdigris Agaric (Stropharia aeruginosa), 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 typically 2-8 cm in diameter, initially convex, becoming more flattened with age. The color is usually bluish-green to greenish, often fading to yellowish-green or brownish with age. The surface is smooth and sticky, especially when moist.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   The gills are adnate to adnexed, closely spaced, and initially whitish to grayish, becoming purplish-brown as the spores mature.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   The stem is 3-7 cm long and 0.5-1 cm thick, cylindrical, and often has a fragile, superior ring that may disappear with age. The stem is whitish to greenish, sometimes with brownish stains.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is whitish to greenish, sometimes bruising slightly brownish when cut.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   The fruiting body of Stropharia aeruginosa is a mushroom with a distinct cap and stem.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Stropharia aeruginosa is found in grassy areas, woodlands, gardens, and disturbed ground. It often grows on decaying organic matter.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Smooth, sticky when moist

Growth Form

Solitary or in small groups

Spore Print

Purplish-brown

Body color

Bluish-green to greenish, fading to yellowish-green or brownish

Odor

Mild, fungal

Flesh bruises

Slightly brownish

Height

3-7 cm

Cap Diameter

2-8 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Adnate to adnexed
• Stem shape: Cylindrical
• Stem surface: Smooth
• Ring: Fragile, superior, may disappear with age
• Stem cross-section: Solid

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