Mower's Mushroom
Panaeolus foenisecii
Type: gilled mushroom
Physical Characteristics
Small brown mushroom with a conical to bell-shaped cap that changes color as it dries. Features mottled gills and a slender, fragile stem.
Habitat & Growing Conditions
Found in lawns, meadows, and grassy areas; particularly common in well-maintained urban lawns.
Season & Fruiting Time
Late spring through autumn, appearing frequently after rain.
Similar Looking Species
Panaeolopsis species and various Panaeolus species. It is specifically similar to Cinctulus/Furfurellus but distinguished by its dark brown spore print rather than jet black.
Ecological Role
Saprophytic, breaking down organic matter in the soil and grass thatch.
Fruiting Body
Cap: 1-3 cm wide, hygrophanous, varying from dark brown when wet to light tan when dry. Hymenophore: Adnate gills, initially brown, becoming mottled as spores mature. Stipe: 4-8 cm long, thin, fragile, brownish.
Size
Cap diameter: 1-3 cm; Stipe: 40-80 mm long x 2-3 mm thick.
Spore Print
Dark brown to walnut brown (not black).
Distribution
Cosmopolitan distribution; extremely common in North America and Europe.
Identification Tips
Look for the mottled gills and the hygrophanous cap (often showing two distinct bands of color while drying). Check the spore print color to rule out similar black-spored Panaeolus species.
Interesting Facts
This species is remarkably common and often the most frequent mushroom found in suburban backyards. Its species name 'foenisecii' is derived from the Latin for 'haymakers' because it is often found in hayfields.
Safety reminder
AI mushroom identification is a best-effort estimate and can be wrong. Never use it to decide whether a mushroom is safe to handle or eat — always confirm with a qualified mycologist before any consumption.
Identified on: 5/7/2026
Mode: Standard