Species · GBIF taxon 5455677
California Agaricus
Agaricus californicusAlso known as Mock Meadow Mushroom
This common urban mushroom frequents lawns, parkways, and landscaped areas throughout California, often appearing in fairy rings after autumn rains. It features a smooth white cap that slowly stains a dull, faint yellow when bruised, eventually fading to gray or brown. Unlike its sweet-smelling relatives, it releases a distinct, ink-like chemical odor when crushed or cooked.
FungusSaprobicToxic
- diet
- Decomposer (Saprobic)
- family
- Agaricaceae
- threats
- Lawn chemical applications and habitat development
- life Span
- Mycelium lives for decades; individual fruiting bodies last 1 to 2 weeks
NE
Toxic if ingested; many edible mushrooms have toxic look-alikes; never eat wild fungi based on app identification alone.
Contains phenolic compounds that cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal distress if ingested.
Do not harvest for consumption; wash hands after handling if sensitive skin is a concern.- Check the base: Scratch the base of the stem to check for a faint yellow color change.
- Scent test: Crush a piece of the cap to detect a distinct, ink-like or phenolic odor.
- Observe the ring: Look for the double-edged ring on the stalk that characterizes this group.