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Meadow mushroom

Agaricus campestris

A species of Agaricus, Also known as Meadow agaricus, Common field mushroom

The meadow mushroom grows in meadows and pastures around the world—especially those rich in manure—when the weather is warm and wet. They are known to appear in “fairy ring” shapes. Originally identified in Europe, it is possible that North American specimens identified as meadow mushrooms may genetically belong to other species.

Cap Diameter:

3 - 10 cm

Odor:

Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.

General Info About Meadow mushroom

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Attributes of Meadow mushroom

Cap Diameter

3 - 10 cm

Height

5 - 12 cm

Cap

Cap 3 - 12 cm across; hemispherical to flat; white to grayish white, yellowish; surface smooth

Cap Shape

Convex, Flat, Central Bump

Cap Surfaces

Smooth, Fibrillose-scaly

Gills

Free; crowded; pink, reddish brown, chocolate-brown

Gill Attachment

Free

Stem

Stem 3 - 10 cm long, 1 - 2 cm thick; white; surface smooth

Stem Shapes

Cylindrical

Stem Surfaces

Velvety

Flesh

White; unchanging color

Ring

On the stem; white

Ring

With Ring

Spore Print Color

Dark chocolate brown

Odor

Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.

Body Color

White

Flesh Bruises

Discolor to pink or red

Growth Form

Solitary, Scattered, Gregarious

Nutrient Gathering

Saprophytic

Substrate

On soil

You can find Meadow mushroom by these plants:

Oaks

Occurence Habitats

Meadows

Species Status

Least Concern

Endangered Species

How to Identify Meadow mushroom

Fruiting Body Cap Flesh

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Habitat of Meadow mushroom

These mushrooms can be found sprouting up in lawns, pastures, and open grassy areas of all kinds. Meadow mushrooms feed on detritus like decomposing plant matter and dung.

Distribution Area of Meadow mushroom

North America,Europe,North Africa,Asia,Australia,New Zealand

Uses of Meadow mushroom

Meadow mushroom is a widely appreciated edible mushroom, especially sought after for its delicate flavor. It's often harvested in the wild during its growing season in late spring to early autumn. Meadow mushroom is popular in gastronomy, frequently used in dishes for its savory taste. While it's generally safe to consume, it's crucial for foragers to accurately identify meadow mushroom due to the existence of similar-looking toxic species. Proper identification ensures its culinary value can be enjoyed without risk.

Scientific Classification of Meadow mushroom

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Gilled fungi

Family

Agaricaceae

Genus

Agaricus

Toxicity and Edibility of Meadow mushroom

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Edibility of Meadow mushroom

Meadow mushroom is a choice edible mushroom that is not commercially available only because of its short shelf life. It has a similar flavor and texture to the commercially available White Button mushroom. However, use caution as this mushroom looks very similar to the deadly Destroying Angel.

Similar Species to Meadow mushroom

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California agaricus

Similar Species

Meadow mushroom

How to Differentiate Between California agaricus and Meadow mushroom?

Meadow mushroom: Has a mild or sweet smell.

California agaricus: Odor ranges from phenolic to unpleasant.

Yellow stainer

Similar Species

Meadow mushroom

How to Differentiate Between Yellow stainer and Meadow mushroom?

Meadow mushroom: Has a mild or sweet smell.

Yellow stainer: Emits a phenol-like, chemical scent, especially when cut or bruised.

Meadow mushroom: Does not display notable color changes.

Yellow stainer: Exhibits a distinct yellow to yellow-brown reaction when the cap or stem is bruised.

Tips for Finding Meadow mushroom

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When is the Best Time to Find Meadow mushroom

Seek meadow mushroom in late summer to autumn, after rainfall when the ground is damp. Ideal conditions include mild days followed by cool nights, typically when temperatures range from 50-70°F (10-21°C).

What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Meadow mushroom

Rich, well-manured soil with grass.

What are Some Tips for Finding Meadow mushroom

Search in open grassy areas like fields, parks, or lawns, especially where the ground is not heavily covered with shrubbery or forest.
Look for meadow mushroom in environments where the soil appears rich and has likely been manured or fertilized.
Keep an eye out for characteristic fairy rings or arcs of mushrooms, which are common growth patterns for meadow mushroom.
Scan for meadow mushroom in gregarious clusters or individually, being careful not to overlook single specimens.

How to Clean and Preserve Meadow mushroom

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How to Clean Meadow mushroom

To clean meadow mushroom, gently brush off any debris with a soft brush or cloth. If necessary, swiftly rinse with water and pat dry to avoid water absorption but do not soak. Handle with care to maintain their integrity.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Meadow mushroom

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying

Drying Duration

6 - 12 months

Store in airtight containers, in a cool, dark place with low humidity to prevent rehydration and spoilage.

Dehydrator drying: Efficiently removes moisture at a controlled temperature, preserving texture and quality.

Oven drying: Low temperature with door slightly open to ensure airflow and prevent burning.

Air drying: Spread thinly on racks in a warm, dry place with good ventilation, away from sunlight.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of Meadow mushroom

Freezing Methods

Blanching Before Freezing

Freezing Duration

10 - 12 months

Blanching before freezing: Briefly scalding in boiling water, stops enzyme action that decays quality.

Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Meadow mushroom

Refrigerating Methods

Paper Bag Storage, Plastic Wrap Storage, Cardboard Box Storage

Temperature

2 - 4 ℃

Refrigerating Humidity

85 - 90 %

Refrigerating Duration

5 - 7 days

Paper Bag Storage: Store in paper bags to allow air circulation and moisture absorption, reducing spoilage.

Plastic Wrap Storage: Wrapping loosely in plastic with punctured holes maintains humidity while allowing some air flow.

Cardboard Box Storage: Layer mushrooms between paper towels in a cardboard box to absorb excess moisture and provide stability.

Common Questions People Also Ask

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More Mushrooms That Are Similar to Meadow mushroom

Yellow stainer

Agaricus xanthodermus

Horse mushroom

Agaricus arvensis

White dapperling

Leucoagaricus leucothites

California agaricus

Agaricus californicus