Shaggy Parasol

Chlorophyllum molybdites

The Shaggy Parasol is a tall mushroom with a floppy cap that looks like an umbrella! It can be found in grassy areas and is fun to spot.

Habitat: Grassy fields

Appearance

The Shaggy Parasol has a white to cream-colored cap covered in shaggy, brownish scales, often flattened when mature. Its free gills are initially white but notoriously turn a distinct greenish color as spores develop, differentiating it from edible look-alikes. It also features a pale stalk with a prominent, movable ring.

KingdomFungiPhylumBasidiomycotaClassAgaricomycetesOrderAgaricalesFamilyAgaricaceaeGenusChlorophyllum

Shaggy Parasol

Interesting facts

Despite its "parasol" name, it's not a true parasol and is very poisonous!

It causes more mushroom poisonings in North America than any other fungus!

Its gills change from white to a weird, tell-tale green color as it matures!

This common lawn mushroom is one of the most frequently misidentified fungi!

Special abilities

Shaggy Parasol can release millions of greenish spores, helping it spread widely and colonize new ground.

Shaggy Parasol produces potent toxins that cause severe illness, protecting itself from most animals.

Shaggy Parasol thrives in disturbed areas like lawns, allowing it to grow where other fungi struggle.

Measurements & details

Height: 10-25 cm
Edibility: poisonous
Cap Diameter: 8-30 cm
Growth Substrate: soil
Season: Summer to early Fall
Spore Color: Greenish-olive

Ecological connections

depends on

Kentucky Bluegrass

Poa pratensis

decomposes dead blades and roots

depends on

Perennial Ryegrass

Lolium perenne

feeds on fallen organic material

eats

Spanish Slug

Arion vulgaris

some slugs can tolerate its toxins

Traits

Deciduous

Discover the magic of plants that shed all their leaves during a particular season, often putting on a spectacular show of fall colors first. They get ready for a fresh start!

Spore Producing

Discover how some plants and fungi create tiny little "seeds" called spores to help them grow new life! These tiny particles drift in the air, spreading new generations far and wide.