At a glance
Essentials
- Distribution
- Present in Europe, Asia, North America, North Africa, Australia, and New Zealand.
- Habitat
- Meadows, grasslands, gardens, and green areas; from lowlands to mountains.
- Activity
- Fruits from late summer to autumn, after rains.
- Diet
- Saprophytic; feeds on decomposing organic matter.
Observation guide
What to look for
- 01
White cap, hemispherical to flattened.
- 02
Free gills, pink to dark brown in color, with a brown spore print.
- 03
White, cylindrical stipe, with a sharp base and ephemeral ring.
Lighting, age and viewing angle can hide features. If identification affects consumption, handling or conservation, consult specialist sources.
Ecology
Description and characteristics
The cap of Agaricus campestris is initially hemispherical and convex, becoming flattened with maturity. Its surface is white, often with fine scales, and the flesh is white. The flesh may present a pale reddish tone upon contact with air.
The gills are free from the stipe and present a color that evolves from pink in young specimens to dark brown or purplish in mature ones, leaving a brown spore print. The stipe is cylindrical, solid, and white, with a sharp or spindle-shaped base, and usually bears a white, thin, and ephemeral ring.
Regarding its ecology, it is a saprophytic fungus that obtains nutrients from decomposing organic matter. It fruits mainly from late summer to autumn, although it can appear from spring, especially after periods of rain. It is found in meadows, grasslands, gardens, and green areas, often in scattered groups or forming fairy rings.