Panaeolus foenisecii

Panaeolus foenisecii, commonly known as the haymaker's mushroom, is a species of fungus in the family Bolbitiaceae. It is widely distributed across North America, Europe, and Asia, where it typically grows in grassy areas such as lawns, meadows, and parks. Despite its widespread occurrence, it is often overlooked due to its small size and nondescript appearance.

Description

Panaeolus foenisecii produces small, brown to greyish-brown mushrooms with caps that measure 1 to 4 cm in diameter. The caps are initially convex, becoming broadly convex to flat as they mature, often with a slight umbo at the center. The surface of the cap is smooth and can become slightly sticky when wet. The gills are adnate to adnexed, and they range in color from grey to mottled black as the spores mature. The stem is thin, ranging from 2 to 8 cm in height and 1 to 3 mm in thickness, and it does not have a ring. The spore print is black.

Habitat and Distribution

Panaeolus foenisecii is saprobic, meaning it feeds on decaying organic matter. It is commonly found growing in small groups or scattered in grassy areas, especially in lawns and meadows that are well-fertilized. This mushroom prefers temperate climates and is most commonly found during the spring and fall months. Its distribution includes North America, Europe, and Asia, making it one of the more widespread members of the genus Panaeolus.

Toxicity

There has been some debate regarding the toxicity of Panaeolus foenisecii. It contains small amounts of psilocybin, a psychoactive compound found in several mushroom species. However, the concentration of psilocybin in Panaeolus foenisecii is generally considered too low to produce significant psychoactive effects. Despite this, consumption of the mushroom is not recommended, as its effects on human health are not fully understood, and it can be easily confused with more toxic species.

Taxonomy

The species was first described scientifically by Elias Magnus Fries in 1821. The genus Panaeolus belongs to the family Bolbitiaceae, which includes several other genera of small to medium-sized mushrooms that are primarily saprobic.

See Also

• Mushroom hunting
• Mushroom poisoning
• Psilocybin mushrooms

References

	gills on hymenium