Yellow Stainer vs Horse Mushroom
Agaricus xanthodermus and Agaricus arvensis are confused for one another often enough to be worth putting next to each other.
Looks like a field mushroom but stains chrome yellow at the stem base and smells of ink or phenol. Causes cramps and vomiting.
Large meadow Agaricus smelling of aniseed. Distinguished from the Yellow Stainer by that pleasant smell.
Side by side
| Agaricus xanthodermus | Agaricus arvensis | |
|---|---|---|
| In this game | Poisonous | Edible |
| Habitat | Parks, gardens, hedgerows and woodland edges on rich soil. | Pasture, meadows, verges and lawns, often near nettles. |
| Season | Summer to autumn. | Summer to autumn. |
| Spore print | Chocolate-brown. | Chocolate-brown. |
This comparison cannot make a mushroom safe to eat. It sets out the few characteristics this game records, in general terms, for two species that vary by region, age and growing conditions. Real specimens overlap in ways no table and no photograph can separate, and the deadly one here is deadly in a single meal. Ask a qualified local expert, every time.
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Agaricus xanthodermus is also confused with Field Mushroom.
Agaricus arvensis is also confused with Death Cap, Destroying Angel, Livid Entoloma and Field Mushroom.
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