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Button mushroom

Agaricus bisporus

A species of Agaricus, Also known as Portobello mushroom, Common mushroom, Champignon mushroom, Chestnut mushroom

Most of the mushrooms sold in supermarkets in the US are cultivated forms of the button mushroom. The white variants are sold as "button mushrooms", the brown as "cremini" or "baby bellas", and full-grown caps as "portobellas." They occur quite infrequently in the wild, in grassy fields around the Northern Hemisphere.

Cap Diameter:

5 - 14 cm

Odor:

Mildly earthy, typical mushroom scent.

General Info About Button mushroom

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Attributes of Button mushroom

Cap Diameter

5 - 14 cm

Height

5 - 10 cm

Cap

Cap 2.5 - 14 cm across; convex to round, flat; brown; with flat feathery scales

Cap Shape

Convex, Flat

Cap Surfaces

Fibrillose-scaly

Gills

Free; close; pinkish to chocolate-brown

Gill Attachment

Free

Stem

Stem 2 - 7 cm long, 1 - 2.5 cm thick; white; surface smooth

Stem Shapes

Cylindrical

Stem Surfaces

Scaly

Flesh

Firm; white; turns pinkish to reddish, brownish when stained and bruised

Ring

On the stem; thin

Ring

With Ring

Spore Print Color

Dark chocolate-brown

Odor

Mildly earthy, typical mushroom scent.

Body Color

Brown

Gray

Flesh Bruises

Discolor to pink or red

Growth Form

Solitary, Scattered, Gregarious

Nutrient Gathering

Saprophytic

Substrate

On soil, On animal dung, Wood Chips or Mulch

You can find Button mushroom by these plants:

Junipers

Occurence Habitats

Disturbed Lands, Meadows

Species Status

Uncommon to rare

Endangered Species

How to Identify Button mushroom

Fruiting Body Flesh Gills

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Habitat of Button mushroom

While the popular button mushroom is regularly cultivated, it can be found in the wild on compost piles, manure, and in lawns and pastures. It feeds on detritus like decomposing plant matter and dung.

Distribution Area of Button mushroom

North America, Europe, North Africa, Asia; probably introduced in Australia, New Zealand

Uses of Button mushroom

Button mushroom is a highly popular edible mushroom, esteemed for its versatility in culinary applications. It is available year-round, making it a staple in dishes globally. Button mushroom is commonly cultivated for its significant economic value and can be found fresh or processed. Due to its savory flavor, button mushroom is frequently used in soups, sauces, and as a protein substitute. While edible and safe for consumption, consumers should always ensure that mushrooms are properly identified to avoid confusion with toxic varieties.

Scientific Classification of Button mushroom

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Gilled fungi

Family

Agaricaceae

Genus

Agaricus

Toxicity and Edibility of Button mushroom

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Edibility of Button mushroom

Button mushroom is the most widely consumed mushroom globally and is cultivated in over 70 countries. This mushroom accounts for about 90% of all commercially sold mushrooms and is a great addition to a wide variety of cuisines. Use extreme caution when harvesting in the wild as it can closely resemble the Destroying Angel mushroom, which is incredibly toxic.

Similar Species to Button mushroom

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Yellow stainer

Similar Species

Button mushroom

How to Differentiate Between Yellow stainer and Button mushroom?

Button mushroom: Has a mild or pleasant mushroomy smell.

Yellow stainer: Releases a phenolic, chemical-like odor, reminiscent of ink.

Button mushroom: Cap color changes are not typically present.

Yellow stainer: Often displays yellowing on the cap when rubbed or aged.

Tips for Finding Button mushroom

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When is the Best Time to Find Button mushroom

Seek button mushroom during mild climates, notably in the fall months when temperatures reside between 50-70°F (10-21°C). Post-rain conditions with high humidity levels increase the likelihood of encountering button mushroom.

What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Button mushroom

Rich, manured soil with adequate moisture.

What are Some Tips for Finding Button mushroom

Search grassy areas in pastures or lawns, particularly where the soil is enriched with organic matter.
Look around compost piles or manure heaps as button mushroom often grows nearby.
Investigate the vicinity of coniferous trees, paying attention to the ground layer of grass or duff.
Focus on areas with adequate moisture, as these soil conditions are favorable for button mushroom growth.

How to Clean and Preserve Button mushroom

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How to Clean Button mushroom

Gently rinse button mushroom under running water to remove any debris. Contrary to the myth that they absorb water, research shows they take in negligible amounts. Pat dry with a towel, ensuring gentle handling to maintain integrity.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Button mushroom

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying

Drying Duration

12 - 18 months

Store in airtight containers, in a cool, dark, and dry place.

Dehydrator drying: Preserves nutrients and texture through controlled temperature and airflow.

Oven drying: Convenient for those without special equipment; use the lowest setting.

Air drying: Suitable in warm, dry climates; requires no energy usage.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of Button mushroom

Freezing Methods

Blanching Before Freezing

Freezing Duration

10 - 12 months

Blanching before freezing: Immersion in boiling water for a brief period to inactivate enzymes.

Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Button mushroom

Refrigerating Methods

Paper Bag Storage, Cardboard Box Storage, Perforated Plastic Bag Storage, Original Packaging Storage, Cloth Wrapping

Temperature

2 - 4 ℃

Refrigerating Humidity

85 - 90 %

Refrigerating Duration

5 - 7 days

Paper Bag Storage: Allows moisture to escape, preventing sogginess while retaining freshness.

Cardboard Box Storage: Absorbs excess moisture and provides good air circulation.

Perforated Plastic Bag Storage: Small holes in the bag ensure ventilation and moisture control.

Original Packaging Storage: Many mushrooms come in breathable packaging, suitable for refrigeration.

Cloth Wrapping: A dry cloth absorbs moisture and provides aeration, keeping them dry.

Common Questions People Also Ask

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Can you eat the gills of a button mushroom?

How do you prepare a button mushroom?

How do you know when a button mushroom is bad?

Where is button mushroom found?

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