How to Identify Inky Cap

Scientific Name: Entoloma sinuatum

Inky Cap (Entoloma sinuatum) identification
Image source: MushroomObserver (CC BY-SA 3.0)

⚠️ Toxicity Warning

This species is recorded as highly toxic. Do not consume. This mushroom is highly toxic and can cause severe gastrointestinal distress. Foragers should avoid it and be cautious of lookalikes.

Description

Entoloma sinuatum is characterized by its distinctive, wavy-edged cap that can range from pale to dark brown. The gills are closely spaced and pinkish in color, and the stem is slender and often has a bulbous base.

Key Identification Features

Field marks recorded for this species. Work through all of them, not just one:

Habitat & Distribution

Habitat: Typically found in grassy areas, particularly in pastures and meadows.

Region: Widely distributed across Europe and North America.

Seasonality

Fruits primarily in late summer to early autumn.

Typical months: Aug-Oct

Common Lookalikes

Always verify identification to avoid these similar species:

Related Species

Browse all species in the Mushroom Database →

Spotted Inky Cap? Map It

Pin the sighting and compare this species against its lookalikes in the offline database — confusion runs both ways, and knowing where toxic species fruit makes every future ID safer.

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Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only. Never consume a wild mushroom unless you are 100% certain of its identification.