Chlorophyllum molybdites

Common Name: Green Spored Lepiota, Green Spored Parasol

Synonyms: Lepiota morganii

Substrate: Ground

Location: Yards, Potted Plants, Grassy Areas

Spore Color: Green

Gill Color: White then Green

Comments: 

This is quite a showy mushroom that often appears in fairy rings in lawns. It is a frequent cause of mushroom poisoning because people mistake it for the Parasol, Macrolepiota procera. The best way to tell the difference between the two is that this one has green spores. Another way to tell the difference is that the base of this mushroom stains red when it is cut. The base will usually be swollen.

Lookalikes:  

Chlorophyllum rhaccodes is very similar, but has scales on the cap that are more prominent. The stalk base also stains orange or brownish. Macrolepiota procera is often in a woodland habitat and does not stain.

Pictures:

Notice the red staining when the base is cut.

Fairly unique ring on the stem. Similar to Macrolepiota.

8/17/12 - Martinsville, IN

Several growing in a potted tree.

8/26/12 - Marion, IN