✅ Edibility Note
While Marasmius oreades is edible, it is essential to correctly identify it as some lookalikes can be toxic. Always consult a local expert or reliable field guide before foraging.
Description
Marasmius oreades is a small to medium-sized mushroom characterized by its brown to yellowish cap that can reach up to 5 cm in diameter. The cap is convex to flat and often has a smooth surface with a slightly striated margin. The gills are free and closely spaced, 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:
- Cap 2-5 cm in diameter, brown to yellowish
- Gills are free and closely spaced
- Stem slender, up to 10 cm tall, often bulbous at the base
- Forms fairy rings in grassy areas
- Spore print is white to cream
Habitat & Distribution
Habitat: Typically found in grassy areas, often in rings or arcs, especially in meadows and pastures.
Region: Widely distributed across North America, Europe, and parts of Asia.
Seasonality
Fruits from late spring to early autumn.
Typical months: May-Oct
Common Lookalikes
Always verify identification to avoid these similar species:
- Marasmius rotula (edible) - distinguished by its more pronounced ring on the stem
- Armillaria mellea (poisonous) - has a thicker stem and grows in clusters with a ring
- Mycena spp. (various) - generally smaller and have a more delicate structure
Related Species
Browse all species in the Mushroom Database →
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