Agaricus subperonatus

Agaricus subperonatus (J.E. Lange) Singer (illustrated 50% life size) Cap 5–12cm across, convex at first, expanding flattish; densely covered with tiny, tawny brown scales on an ochraceous ground. Stem 60–90×12–25mm, cylindrical; whitish, bruising tawny; membranous ring, basal volva often showing as one or two zones. Flesh white, discolouring immediately brown-vinaceous; taste and smell fruity then unpleasant, like chicory. Gills free; dingy-pink for a long time, at length blackish-brown. Spores 5–8×4–5¼, elliptical. Spore print brown. Habitat in gardens, rubbish dumps, and grassy woods; summer to autumn. Rare, possibly under-recorded. Edible with caution; causes stomach upsets in some people, so eat only a small amount at first.