It’s often difficult to settle the debate surrounding Shaggy Parasol vs False Parasol mushrooms based on their looks alone.
Sometimes, you must look under their caps to find the true poisonous faker!
To have a deeper look at more features of these fungi, follow the article.
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Shaggy Parasol Vs False Parasol [Overview & Facts]
Parasol mushrooms belong to the family Agaricaceae, with about 40 species listed under the Chlorophyllum (previously Macrolepiota) genera.
Most of the Chlorophyllum species look alike, and several of them are toxic, with only a few edible species.
Shaggy Parasol and False Parasol are two similar-looking Chlorophyllum species. However, Shaggy Parasol is safe to eat, while False Parasol is deadly for humans and pets.
But you can differentiate between Shaggy Parasol and False Parasol based on their cap structure, gills, stem or stipe, and spore print.
Edibility & Risks of Shaggy Parasol Vs False Parasol
Shaggy Parasol (Chlorophyllum rhacodes) is an edible mushroom, while False Parasol (Chlorophyllum molybdites) is toxic.
Due to the bold flavors and meaty texture, cooks use Shaggy Parasols to complement or supplement beef rib roasts and leg of lamb, and they are also used in stews, soups, and fried or sauteed dishes.
Despite their edibility, Shaggy Parasol may cause minor gastrointestinal upsets if you eat it raw or sometimes cooked.
Additionally, Shaggy Parasol packs protein, vitamin B, fiber, iron, zinc, potassium, and copper. They are also supposed to contain anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.
Difference Between Shaggy Parasol Vs False Parasol
If you are a newbie mushroom forager, you must know the difference between Shaggy Parasol and False Parasol.
A good look at the table shall clear all your thoughts.
| Features | Shaggy Parasol | False Parasol |
|---|---|---|
| Cap | Size: 3-12 inches in diameter Color: Creamy White with Brown Pronounced Scales Shape: Convex & Flat on the Middle with Wavy Margins | Size: 2-11 inches in diameter Color: Creamy White with Brownish, Pinkish to Greenish Scales Shape: More Bell-shaped & Pronounced Bumpy Top with Smooth Margins |
| Gills | Whitish Pink (when mature) | Dull & Mossy Green or Whitish Green (when mature) |
| Stem | May Stain Reddish or Pinkish When Cut | No Staining |
| Spore Print | Whitish Brown | Greenish White |
However, both Shaggy Parasols and False Parasols can look the same when they are babies or maturing.
So, it’s ideal not to eat them and depend on experts’ guidance before collecting them.
From Editorial Team
Conclusion!
Fake Parasols are also called ‘Green-Spored Parasols,’ but their gills turn green only when they mature.
Further, they grow in fairy ring patterns in clusters, which may be a major key for identification.
