Macrolepiota procera

All mushrooms feature diagnostic traits that set them apart from other species of fungi. The Parasol Mushroom, as Macrolepiota procera is commonly called, features a peculiar bump at the center of the cap, as if the slender stem below has been pushed upward, nearly poking through the fleshy cap. Additional traits include tiny, reddish scales on the stem, as well as a loose “ring” or “collar.” Plus, the cap often appears impossibly large for such a slender pillar of support. This is a delicious edible species. But one must first learn to identify the poisonous look-alikes before allowing one’s self the pleasure.