Field Mushroom
Agaricus campestris
Do not eat any fungi that has not been properly identified by a qualified professional, some are DEADLY when ingested. All edible wild fungi MUST be cooked.
Field Mushrooms are one of the most common edible mushrooms that grow in temperate climates throughout the world. In 1753 Carl Linnaeus, (a Swedish biologist and physician), gave the binomial scientific name, Agaricus campestris, to this mushroom. The specific epithet campestris, comes from the Latin word for a field. Field mushrooms are closely related to Agaricus bisporus, the common store-bought white button and cremini mushroom. The scent and taste of both Agaricus species are very close. Their mycelium feeds on dead vegetation in the soil; they are saprobic. It is not uncommon to see Field Mushrooms growing in fairy rings, but generally they occur singly or in random scattered small groups.
Type
Distinguishing Features
Agaricus campestris mushrooms have a white cap, pink gills that turn dark brown as they age, and a temporary veil (ring) on the stem. The veil itself is ephemeral, by the time the mushroom is fully developed there is rarely much evidence of it. The cap measures 3 to 10cm (1.25 to 4") in diameter, are creamy white, and sometimes develop small scales as they mature. Generally the margin remains slightly in-rolled even when the cap has expanded fully. The thick flesh is white, sometimes turning slightly pink when cut but never stains yellow. The Yellow Stainer is a close look-a-like but when cut or bruised, it always stains yellow; Field Mushrooms will never stain yellow if cut or bruised. Having a professional confirm identification is important.
Height
They can grow anywhere from 3 to 10cm (1.25 to 4") tall. Stems are 1 to 2cm (.39 to .78") in diameter.
Habitat
Field Mushrooms grow in the grass in pastures, playing fields, parks, and in people's yards. They can be found worldwide in temperate climates.
Spore Print
Chocolate to dark brown.
Season
They can grow at any time from late spring through to autumn.
Gills
Gills are deep pink at first, crowded, and they do not attach at the stem. The gills turn dark brown and eventually almost black as the fruitbody matures.
Edibility
Field Mushrooms are a very good edible species and can be used in any recipe that uses button (cultivated) mushrooms. Always be 100 percent positive on the identification of this mushroom.
Other Name
Meadow Mushroom.
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