Agaricus impudicus

Agaricus impudicus

Taxonomy

Phylum: Basidiomycota

Class: Agaricomycetes

Order: Agaricales

Family: Agaricaceae

Agaricus impudicus is one of the many edible wood mushrooms, but it is far from remarkable for its flavour and so not much sought for by fungi foragers. This attractive species is widespread, but it is only an occasional find in many parts of Britain and Ireland.

Although they occur most often in groups beneath conifers, you may occasionally find these stately mushrooms also in deciduous woods and in mixed woodland.

Identification guide

Cap

5 to 10cm across; initially convex, often becoming flat topped as it expands; large scales usually in various shades of dark brown on a pale brown background; whitish flesh slowly turning only slightly red when cut.

Gills

Free; crowded; greyish pink, turning brown with age.

Stem

6 to 10cm long and 0.8 to 1.2 cm dia., with a slightly bulbous base; white pendulous ring; surface smooth and white, turning brown with age.

Spore print

Chocolate brown.

Odour/taste

Odour not distinctive; taste mild.

Habitat

Often in groups in conifer forests and mixed woodland.

Season

August to November.

Occurrence

A widespread but occasional find. 

Similar species

Agaricus haemorrhoidarius is very similar, with grey-brown scales and a stouter stem; it occurs under broad-leaved trees, notably oak and beech.

Agaricus augustus, The Prince, is larger and smells of bitter almonds.