Lepiota rhacodes

The handsome Lepiota rhacodes (Shaggy Parasol) is similar in appearence to Lepiota procera , the (Parasol Mushroom). The latter grows considerably larger however and is more likely to be found in the open than Lepiota rhacodes which seems to prefer more shade.

The rounded heads become wider and flatter as the mushrooms mature. The gills are white in colour. The caps develop into brown scales on a whitish background. Another distinguishing feature is that Lepiota rhacodes lacks the brown bands that are on the stem of Lepiota procera.

Both these species are edible.

The larger species of Lepiota have now been reclassified as Macrolepiota (for example see[1]).

references

Collins Gem Guide: Mushrooms and Toadstools, Stefan Buckzacki 1982.

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