Macrolepiota procera

Species of fungus

Speciesbox
| image = ParasolMushroom. JPG
| image caption = A young parasol mushroom
| genus = Macrolepiota
| species = procera
| authority = (Scop.) Singer (1948)
| synonyms ref =

The fungus was first described in 1772 by Italian naturalist Giovanni Antonio Scopoli, who named it Agaricus procerus. It is very sought after and popular in Europe, due in part to its large size, seasonal frequency, and versatility in the kitchen. In the UK, it may be found from July through to November. The parasol mushroom is difficult to mistake for any other, especially in regions like Europe where the poisonous look alike Chlorophyllum molybdites is rare. The spores and lamellae of C. molybdites are notably greener in appearance. Its range is reportedly expanding into Europe. Leucocoprinus brunnea, also found in North America, slowly turns brown when sliced. White and immature species of Amanita are also a potential hazard. To be sure, one must only pick parasol mushrooms past their button stage. A general rule of thumb with the parasol mushroom as compared to amanita species is that the parasol mushroom has darker flakes on a lighter surface, whereas amanita species have the opposite, lighter flakes (if there are any) on a darker surface, such as the Panther cap. This rule of thumb does not apply everywhere like to the species Amanita smithiana. The Saffron Parasol Cystoderma amianthinum is very much smaller, and not often eaten. Lepiota brunneoincarnata is a lepiota species known to have caused fatal poisonings in Spain. It is much smaller than Macrolepiota procera.