Inky Mushroom
Agaricus moelleri
Also Known As: 
Previous synonyms - Agaricus placomyces, Agaricus meleagris
Cap Diameter (mm): 
50-120
Stem Diameter (mm): 
10-12
Stem Height (mm): 
60-100
 
Description: 
A carbolic smelling Agaric that grows in both broadleaf woodland and coniferous woodland. Closely related to Agaricus xanthodermus, this mushroom turns bright yellow upon bruising or breaking the flesh. It is worth noting that this Agaricus is a summer species and is usually only found between the months of July and September.
Cap: 
The cap of the Inky Mushroom has a campanulate cap which often becomes perfectly flat with age. It displays a pattern comprised of sooty-brown scales similarly distributed atop the cap to that of Agaricus augustus.
Flesh: 
Flesh starts off white/cream, yellowing with age and finally becoming a pale brown. The smell is distinctive and very similar to that of Agaricus xanthodermus- unpleasant and strong.
Gills: 
Free gills which are initially pale pink, turning brown with age. Crowded.
Spores: 
Brown spores which are elliptical in shape, Globose cheilocystidia. 4-6 x 3-4 microns in size.
Stem: 
Cylindric with bulbous base. Houses a large ring and bruises bright yellow.
Distribution: 
Occasional.
Habitat: 
Mixed woodland.