Cap
|
Initially globose but with a flat top, the
cap expands to become broadly convex without an in-rolled margin.
Initially pure white and matt, later greying, caps grow to between 5
and 15 cm at maturity, and they quickly turn crome yellow when scratched
or bruised. |
Gills
|
In this picture the partial veil is just
beginning to rupture, revealing free, off-white gills that soon turn
pink and later become grey-brown as the fruitbody reaches maturity. |
Stipe |
The stipe diameter is 1 to 2 cm with a
smooth, silky surface and a bulbous base. A large white stem ring
persists through to maturity.
When cut the stem flesh quickly turns from white to chrome yellow,
most markedly at the stem base. |
Spore print |
Very dark brown. |
Odour/taste |
Taste not distinctive. Noticeable odour of
ink, phenol or iodine, especially when the flesh is bruised or cut. |
Habitat |
Most commonly under hedgerows and at the
edges of gardens and other areas of disturbed soil. |
Season |
June to October. |
Occurrence |
Frequent. |
Similar species |
- Agaricus arvensis is superficially very similar but bruises
more slowly and only slightly yellow; its flesh smells of aniseed
rather than of iodine.
- Agaricus campestris is similar in appearance but does not turn
yellow when cut or bruised.
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