How to identify Cobweb Stropharia

To correctly identify Cobweb Stropharia (Stropharia caerulea), 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.

   Hemispherical to convex, 2–7 cm in diameter, smooth, slimy surface, color varies from bluish to brownish.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   Closely spaced, adnate, initially whitish, turning grayish-blue to dark purple as spores mature.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   3–8 cm long, 0.5–1.5 cm thick, with a ring that is often slimy or disappears with age.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   Whitish, does not change color when bruised.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   Medium-sized mushroom with a slimy cap and stem.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Grassy habitats, such as lawns, meadows, and parks.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Smooth, slimy

Growth Form

Solitary or in small groups

Spore Print

Dark purple-brown

Body color

Bluish to brownish

Odor

Mild

Flesh bruises

No color change

Height

3-8 cm

Cap Diameter

2-7 cm

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Adnate
• Stem shape: Cylindrical
• Stem surface: Smooth, slimy when moist
• Ring: Present, often slimy and may disappear with age
• Stem cross-section: Solid

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