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Parasol

Macrolepiota procera

A species of Macrolepiota

Found in clearings and grassy areas in late summer, the wild parasol mushroom has a snakeskin-patterned stem. The brown spots on its cap make it look a bit shaggy, but that name is reserved for its poisonous counterpart, the Shaggy Parasol (Chlorophyllum rhacodes). You can distinguish the two by the stems: the latter has a smooth stem and red flesh inside.

Cap Diameter:

30 - 50 cm

Odor:

Earthy and nutty, not particularly distinctive.

General Info About Parasol

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Attributes of Parasol

Cap Diameter

30 - 50 cm

Height

30 - 40 cm

Cap

Cap 30 - 50 cm across; flat, umbonate; dark brown; with scales

Cap Shape

Convex, Flat, Central Bump

Cap Surfaces

Fibrillose-scaly

Gills

Free; crowded; white to cream

Gill Attachment

Free

Stem

Stem 30 cm long, 1 - 2.5 cm thick; white to cream; with bands of scales in zigzag patterns

Stem Shapes

Club Shaped

Stem Surfaces

Scaly

Stem Cross Sections

Hollow or cottony hollow

Flesh

Moderately thick; white

Ring

On the stem; fleshy; white

Ring

With Ring

Spore Print Color

White to very pale cream

Odor

Earthy and nutty, not particularly distinctive.

Body Color

Brown

White

Cream

Flesh Bruises

The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.

Growth Form

Solitary, Scattered, Gregarious

Nutrient Gathering

Saprophytic

Substrate

On soil

You can find Parasol by these plants:

Oaks, Pines

Occurence Habitats

Deciduous Woodland, Meadows, Disturbed Lands

Species Status

Widespread

Endangered Species

How to Identify Parasol

Fruiting Body Cap Flesh

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Habitat of Parasol

The parasol appears in open woods, near wood edges, or in pastures and grasslands. It also appears in disturbed areas or along roadsides and trails. It prefers grassy areas and poor soil.

Distribution Area of Parasol

North America,Europe,Africa,Central and South America,western and northern Asia,New Zealand

Uses of Parasol

Parasol is a highly valued edible mushroom, popular for its nutty flavor and firm texture. It's often foraged in late summer to autumn. Chefs and food enthusiasts prize parasol for gourmet dishes due to its large size and versatility in recipes. While it's a sought-after delicacy, caution is advised during identification, as it has look-alikes that are toxic; only experienced foragers should collect parasol.

Scientific Classification of Parasol

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Gilled fungi

Family

Agaricaceae

Genus

Macrolepiota

Toxicity and Edibility of Parasol

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Edibility of Parasol

Parasol is reported to be edible. This mushroom is found throughout the United States and mainland Europe. However, it looks similar to other mushrooms, including those of the genus Chlorophyllum, which are toxic when consumed raw.

Similar Species to Parasol

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False parasol

Similar Species

Parasol

How to Differentiate Between False parasol and Parasol?

Parasol: White.

False parasol: Greenish.

Parasol: Snakeskin-like pattern.

False parasol: Smooth with no pattern.

Tips for Finding Parasol

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When is the Best Time to Find Parasol

The best time to find parasol is late summer to fall. Seek them after periods of rain when temperatures are mild. Morning forays following wet, warm conditions will increase your chances.

What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Parasol

Prefers well-drained soils, rich in organic matter.

What are Some Tips for Finding Parasol

Look for parasol in open areas with ample sunlight where trees are sparse.
Check grassy edges along roadsides, paths, or clearings in forests.
Examine permanent grassy pastures and stable sand dunes for scattered or solitary specimens.
Return to previously found spots as parasol can reappear in the same places if conditions remain favorable.
Carefully search among ferns and other ground cover plants in appropriate habitats.

How to Clean and Preserve Parasol

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How to Clean Parasol

Gently brush the cap of parasol using a soft brush to remove debris. Care should be taken to preserve the gills, which are delicate. The stem should be removed as it is tough and not suitable for cleaning in this context.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Parasol

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying

Drying Duration

6 - 12 months

Store in a cool, dark, dry place with airtight containers to prevent moisture and light damage.

Dehydrator drying: Efficiently reduces moisture without cooking, suitable for high water content mushrooms.

Oven drying: Consistent low heat expedites drying process under controlled conditions.

Air drying: Natural, gentle method that preserves mushrooms over a longer period.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of Parasol

Freezing Methods

Blanching Before Freezing

Freezing Duration

10 - 12 months

Blanching before freezing: Brief heating to deactivate enzymes, followed by rapid cooling and freezing.

Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Parasol

Refrigerating Methods

Paper Bag Storage, Cloth Wrapping, Original Packaging Storage, Spread-Out Storage

Temperature

2 - 4 ℃

Refrigerating Humidity

90 - 95 %

Refrigerating Duration

5 - 7 days

Paper Bag Storage: Store in paper bags to absorb excess moisture and allow air circulation, preventing soggy deterioration.

Cloth Wrapping: Wrap in a damp cloth for moisture retention without excess build-up, keeping them firm and fresh.

Original Packaging Storage: Keep in original perforated containers for a balance of humidity and airflow, avoiding condensation spoilage.

Spread-Out Storage: Place in a container with partitions to avoid contact and reduce spoilage from bruising.

Common Questions People Also Ask

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Can you eat a parasol mushroom?

Where is parasol found?

What is parasol good for?

How do you cook parasol?

Is parasol allergic?

More Mushrooms That Are Similar to Parasol

False parasol

Chlorophyllum molybdites

Slender parasol

Macrolepiota mastoidea

Olive shaggy parasol

Chlorophyllum olivieri

Graceful parasol

Macrolepiota clelandii