| Ecology & Habitat | Saprotrophic. Growing Gregariously/Trooping (many individuals in close space) Grassy areas, gardens, and disturbed soil Deciduous trees |
| Edibility, Taste & Odor | Phenolic or Like Tar Toxic |
| Cap | White cap, with off white to light brown fibers, bruises bright yellow |
| Gills | Pink gills that age to brown as spores mature. |
| Stem | White, bruising bright yellow, especially at the base. |
| Spores | Chocolate Brown |
Agaricus xanthodermus is an uncommon find for me. It is not a specific species in itself, but rather, it represents a species complex that is identifiable by the bright yellow bruising when handled. The name “xanthodermus” comes from the Latin words “xanthos” meaning yellow and “derma” meaning skin, which refers to the yellowing of the flesh when bruised or cut. Like many other Agaric mushrooms, It has a white to off white cap, that may be brownish near the center and have brown scales or fibers radiating out from the center. The gills are initially pink but turn brown as the mushroom matures. The stem is white, with a slightly bulbous base and may have some yellowish remains of the inner veil present forming a ring or annulus near the top of the stem. It has a strong, unpleasant odor, which has been described as resembling phenol or disinfectant. Unlike many similar looking agaric mushrooms, The mushrooms in the species complex are TOXIC, and should not be eaten. This particular set were found grouped around the base of a maple tree in open grass area.
