Agaricus brunnescens

A species of Agaricus.

The cap of this wild mushroom species, initially dome-shaped before flattening with age, measures between 5 and 10 centimeters (2-4 inches) across. Its color ranges from a light grey-brown, adorned with wide, flat scales set against a lighter backdrop that fades towards the edges. The gills are slender and tightly packed, unattached to the stalk, and progress in color from pink to reddish-brown, culminating in a dark brown hue, with a distinct whitish rim due to the cheilocystidia. The cylindrical stalk can reach up to 6 cm (2 1⁄3 in) in height and 1–2 cm in width, featuring a prominent, narrow ring that may exhibit streaks on its upper surface. The firm, white flesh acquires a faint pinkish-red stain when bruised. The spore print is a deep brown. The spores themselves are oval to round, approximately 4.5–5.5 μm × 5–7.5 μm, and the basidia typically produce two spores. However, variations bearing four spores have been documented in the Mojave Desert and the Mediterranean, displaying predominantly heterothallic and homothallic reproductive strategies, respectively. This mushroom is a common sight globally, flourishing in fields and grassy areas after rainfall, from late spring into autumn, particularly in conjunction with manure. It is a popular choice for foraging and consumption, even among individuals generally unaccustomed to mushroom hunting.