Widespread but not common, gray parasol(Leucoagaricus barssii) tends to appear in the Pacific Northwest and may extend as far south as the Bay Area. It prefers drier sites, such as sandy soils or loams. Many species in the genus Leucoagaricus are notable for their unique status as crops for agricultural ants, who purposely cultivate them as an ongoing food source.
Cap Diameter:
4 - 15 cm
Odor:
Mild, typically fungal, non-distinctive.
In This Article
Attributes
Similar Species
Tips for Finding
Clean and Preserve
Common Questions
General Info About Gray parasol
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Attributes of Gray parasol
Cap Diameter
4 - 15 cm
Height
10 - 15 cm
Cap
Cap 4 - 13 cm across; hemispherical to plano-convex; pale to greyish-brown, white; fibrillose to squamulose; margin incurved, decurved to upturned
Cap Shape
Convex, Flat, Central Bump
Cap Surfaces
Fibrillose-scaly
Gills
Free; crowded; cream; unchanging when bruised
Gill Attachment
Free
Stem
Stem 5 - 10 cm long, 1.5 - 2.5 cm thick; spindle-shaped to clavate; white
Stem Shapes
Club Shaped
Stem Surfaces
Fibrillose
Stem Cross Sections
Hollow or cottony hollow
Flesh
Fairly thick; white to grayish; not staining when bruised
Ring
Collarlike; membranous; white
Ring
With Ring
Spore Print Color
White
Odor
Mild, typically fungal, non-distinctive.
Body Color
Brown
Gray
White
Flesh Bruises
The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.
Gray parasol appears in disturbed areas such as roadsides, paths, and sparse grass. It grows on the ground, reportedly on sandy and loamy soil.
Uses of Gray parasol
Gray parasol is recognized for its edibility, offering a culinary option for mushroom enthusiasts. Its practical applications are primarily in cooking, where it can be used similarly to more common edible mushrooms. The collection value of gray parasol is moderate among foragers, and while not the most popular, it is appreciated when available seasonally. As with all wild mushrooms, proper identification and preparation are crucial to ensure safety when consuming gray parasol.
How to Differentiate Between California agaricus and Gray parasol?
Gray parasol: Features white to cream colored gills.
California agaricus: Has pinkish to brown gills.
Tips for Finding Gray parasol
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When is the Best Time to Find Gray parasol
Seek gray parasol during late summer to autumn when the weather starts cooling. Best after light rains, when the ground is moist but not waterlogged. Morning forays often yield the freshest specimens.
What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Gray parasol
Enjoys rich, disturbed soils, often associated with woodchips.
What are Some Tips for Finding Gray parasol
Investigate landscaped areas like gardens, parks, or places with recent soil disturbance.
Look for gray parasol in environments with an abundance of woodchips, such as garden pathways or mulched plant beds.
Inspect open fields and roadsides, especially areas with sparse grass.
Explore areas following significant rainfall when ground moisture is high.
Search for gray parasol growing alone or in small clusters rather than in large groups.
How to Clean and Preserve Gray parasol
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How to Clean Gray parasol
To clean gray parasol, use a gentle shower approach. Briefly rinse under running water, then pat dry immediately to avoid water absorption and maintain their firm texture.
Tips on Dry Preservation of Gray parasol
Drying Methods
Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying
Drying Duration
12 - 24 months
Store in dark, cool, airtight containers with desiccants to absorb moisture.
Dehydrator drying: Efficient at removing moisture quickly, limiting spoilage.
Oven drying: Consistent low heat accelerates water evaporation.
Air drying: Natural process, ideal in arid climates with good ventilation.
Tips on Freezing Preservation of Gray parasol
Freezing Methods
Blanching Before Freezing
Freezing Duration
10 - 12 months
Blanching before freezing: Extent of blanching tailored to the specific moisture content and texture.
Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Gray parasol
Refrigerating Methods
Paper Bag Storage, Plastic Wrap Storage, Cloth Wrapping, Cardboard Box Storage
Temperature
2 - 4 ℃
Refrigerating Humidity
85 - 90 %
Refrigerating Duration
4 - 7 days
Paper Bag Storage: Store mushrooms in a paper bag to allow absorption of excess moisture and air circulation.
Plastic Wrap Storage: Wrap mushrooms in plastic and puncture for slight airflow; slows spoilage, yet maintains humidity.
Cloth Wrapping: Layer mushrooms between clean, damp cloth to balance moisture levels, avoiding dehydration or sogginess.
Cardboard Box Storage: Place mushrooms in a cardboard box, maintaining aeration and humidity control, useful for delicate textures.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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