This page will cover some of the basics for Macrolepiota, the large lepiota.
Due to the large number of look-a-likes, one of which is toxic, we consider this a mushroom that is NOT for beginners.
As with all of these pages, they are NOT intended to be used as a key or diagnostic tool, but a guide of basic identifying characteristics so that you can make informed decisions and easy-access to other, more detailed resources.
Macrolepiota Procera- The Parasol Mushroom 
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Mature Cap Shape: Parasol
Macrolepiota is a smaller genus in the very large family Agaricaceae. The species in North America are poorly described and likely genetically different from Eurasian species (this is at least likely for M. procera). As seen in the images, the mature fruitbody takes on a distinctive parasol shape on a very tall (over a foot!) stipe. | Young Cap Shape: Lepitoid
The young cap will usually be found in the bullet-shape (sometimes described as egg-shaped) seen in this image, and NOT a more rounded ball (typical of Chlorophyllum species). This bullet shape is commonly seen in Lepiota and similar genera. When the cap opens into it's typical parasol shape, there will be a brown umbo (raised nipple) in the center of the cap and distinct brown scales. |
Stipe: Snakeskin Pattern The stipe holds some critical characteristics that separate M. procera from its most common and toxic look-a-like, Chlorophyllum molybdites. M. procera has an ornamented stipe that usually takes on small chevron (triangles) shaped scales. The annulus (ring) has flares on the top and bottom and if grasped, can be easily moved up and down the stipe. | Deep Gills |
