Agaricus crocodilinus

Macro Mushroom

Status:

Occasional

Meaning 'mushroom'

Cap:

6-28cm

Stem:

4-12cm

Reference to the 'scales' that sometimes form on the cap.

Description

Better known by its older scientific names of Agaricus urinascens and Agaricus macrosporus. A distinctive mushroom that whilst on face value looks similar to other larger Agaricus has subtle differences. The stem is 'rough' below the ring and smooth above it. The smell of this species, especially when mature, is more like ammonia or even urine (hence the scientific name). Probably under-recorded or mis-identified for other Agaricus.

Smell

With small specimens it is not really noticeable, some smell slightly almondy. More mature specimens begin to smell of ammonia or even urine.

Season

Summer to Autumn.

Habitat & Distribution

Upland grassland, moorland edges, pasture, coastal grassland, woodland clearings and woodland edges are all places we have encountered this species. Widespread over much of the UK.

Edibility

Edible. Whilst younger specimens are delicious, we find the more mature specimens have a smell with them which we don't like to eat.

Confusion Species

Spores

9-12 x 6-8µ, ovate.

Spore Print Colour

Brown

Horse Mushroom (Agaricus arvensis) is similar but the stem has the same texture above and below the ring and has an aniseed smell.