Parrot waxcap

Gliophorus psittacinus

A species of Waxcaps. Also known as Parrot toadstool.

This unique mushroom is most easily identified in its juvenile stage. Recently emerged parrot waxcaps display exquisite caps and stalks, possessing both the color and luster of polished jade, while their vibrant canary yellow gills underneath create a dramatic and colorful juxtaposition. This species, which thrives in damp grasslands and pastures, inhabits temperate regions throughout the northern hemisphere and extends to South Africa.

In This Article
Attributes Classification Toxicity Similar Mushrooms

Attributes of Parrot waxcap

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Cap Diameter
5 - 25 mm
Height
4 - 6 cm
Cap
Cap 5 - 25 mm across; broadly convex, flat; variable in colors; smooth, bald, slimy
Cap Shape
Convex, Bell-shaped, Flat, Central Bump
Cap Surfaces
Slimy or slightly sticky
Gills
Narrowly attached; close or nearly distant; pale green, yellowish
Gill Attachment
Attached
Stem
Stem 1 - 4 cm long, 2 - 3 mm thick; equal; pale yellowish; bald, slimy, smooth
Stem Shapes
Cylindrical
Stem Surfaces
Smooth
Flesh
Thin; whitish
Ring
Ringless
Spore Print Color
White
Odor
Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.
Body Color
GreenYellowOrange
Flesh Bruises
The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.
Growth Form
Solitary, Scattered, Gregarious
Nutrient Gathering
Saprophytic
Substrate
On soil, Mosses
You can find Parrot waxcap by these plants
White oak, Maples, Hawthorns
Occurence Habitats
Deciduous Woodland, Coniferous Woodland, Meadows
Species Status
Widely distributed
Endangered Species
No

Scientific Classification of Parrot waxcap

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Phylum
Club fungi
Class
Mushroom-forming fungi
Order
Gilled fungi
Family
Waxgills
Genus
Waxcaps
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Toxicity and Edibility of Parrot waxcap

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Is Parrot waxcap Toxic?

The Parrot waxcap mushroom can be located in both deciduous and coniferous woodlands, frequently emerging amidst moss. Some experts categorize it as either mildly toxic or unfit for consumption, primarily due to its unappetizing, slimy consistency and lack of substantial size. Ingestion may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort, suggesting the presence of potentially harmful substances. Furthermore, its scarcity, especially across Europe, has prompted advice against harvesting it for culinary purposes. Although the precise toxic agents within the mushroom are yet to be fully identified, it is best to refrain from eating it to avert potential health problems and to help conserve its natural populations.

Type of poisoning
Gastrointestinal
Toxic Severity
Low toxicity
Incubation Period
0.5-4 hours
Poisoning Symptoms
Experience of minor digestive upset in the stomach and intestines.