Parasol Mushroom
Macrolepiota procera
Type: gilled mushroom
Physical Characteristics
Large white to cream cap covered in coarse, brown, concentric scales with a dark central bump (umbo). The gills are crowded and free from the stem. The stipe is tall, slender, and possesses a double-edged, movable ring.
Habitat & Growing Conditions
Grows in grassy areas, meadows, open woodlands, pastures, and along forest edges. Often found on well-drained soil.
Season & Fruiting Time
Generally fruits from late summer to late autumn, following periods of warm and wet weather.
Similar Looking Species
Chlorophyllum molybdites (False Parasol) which has a green spore print; Macrolepiota mastoidea which is smaller and more slender; Lepiota species which are typically much smaller and have non-movable rings.
Ecological Role
Saprophytic, breaking down organic matter in the soil and grass thatch.
Fruiting Body
Cap starts ovate, expanding to a flat or slightly umbonate shape. Surface is dry with flaky brown scales. Gills are white, free from the stipe, and very crowded. The stipe is long, hollow, and features a snakeskin-like pattern (marmorated) with a bulbous base and a thick, sliding ring.
Size
Cap diameter 10-25 cm; Stipe length 15-40 cm, diameter 1-2 cm.
Spore Print
White to pale cream
Distribution
Widely distributed throughout Europe, North America, North Africa, and parts of Asia.
Identification Tips
Look for the large size, the dark central umbo, the movable ring on the stipe, and the characteristic brown zig-zag or snakeskin pattern on the stem surface.
Interesting Facts
The genus name Macrolepiota is derived from the Greek 'makros' meaning large and 'lepis' meaning scale. These mushrooms are notable for their impressive height, sometimes reaching over a foot tall, making them some of the tallest gilled mushrooms in the world.
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: 4/18/2026
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