Chlorophyllum molybdites

Chlorophyllum molybdites, which goes by the common names of false parasol or green-spored parasol is a widespread mushroom. Highly poisonous and producing severe gastrointestinal symptoms of vomiting and diarrhoea, it is commonly confused with the shaggy parasol and is the most commonly consumed poisonous mushroom in North America. Its large imposing appearance and similarity to the edible Parasol mushroom, as well as its habit of growing in areas near human habitation, are reasons cited for this. The nature of the poisoning is predominantly gastrointestinal.

Distribution and habitat
Chlorophyllum molybdites grows in lawns and parks across eastern North America and California, and subtropical regions around the world. Fruiting bodies generally appear after summer and autumn rains. It has spread to other countries, with reports in Scotland and Australia.

Description
It is a large imposing mushroom with a pileus (cap) up to 40 cm in diameter, initially hemispherical and later flattening out. The cap is whitish in colour with coarse brownish scales. The gills are free and white, often with a greenish tinge. The tall stipe may be up to 25 cm tall and bears a ring.

Toxicity
The symptoms of Chlorophyllum molybdites poisoning is predominantly gastrointestinal in nature, with vomiting, diarrhoea and colic, often severe, occurring 1-3 hours after consumption.