Chlorophyllum molybdites, often called the green-spored parasol, is a common mushroom found in many lawns and grassy areas. This mushroom is not edible and is poisonous, capable of causing significant unpleasant symptoms if consumed.
About Chlorophyllum molybdites
Chlorophyllum molybdites is known by several common names, including green-spored parasol, false parasol, green-gill parasol, and vomiter. It is frequently found in temperate and subtropical regions globally, particularly widespread in North America, especially throughout the southeastern United States. These mushrooms often appear in lawns, meadows, parks, and other disturbed ground after periods of rain. They are often large, with caps 3 to 12 inches in diameter and stems up to 12 inches in height. They commonly grow alone, scattered, or in groups, sometimes forming “fairy rings.”
Toxicity of Chlorophyllum molybdites
Chlorophyllum molybdites is the most common cause of mushroom poisoning in the United States. Its toxicity stems from gastrointestinal irritants present throughout the mushroom. While the specific chemical compound responsible for all symptoms is not fully identified, molybdophyllysin is thought to be a primary toxin. The mushroom causes severe digestive upset rather than being deadly in most cases. Cooking does not reliably neutralize the toxins, as individuals experience toxicity even after consuming cooked specimens.
What Happens If Consumed
Ingesting Chlorophyllum molybdites leads to gastrointestinal symptoms such as severe nausea, profuse vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. In some instances, diarrhea might even contain blood. Symptoms typically begin within 1 to 3 hours after consumption. Their duration often ranges from 24 to 48 hours, though they can sometimes persist longer. While fatalities are rare, severe vomiting and diarrhea can lead to significant fluid and electrolyte loss, potentially causing dehydration. This risk is elevated for vulnerable populations, such as young children and the elderly.
Immediate Steps After Consumption
If you suspect consumption of Chlorophyllum molybdites, seek immediate medical attention. Contact a poison control center (such as the national Poison Control Center hotline in the U.S.) or an emergency department. Prompt medical evaluation allows healthcare professionals to manage symptoms and prevent complications. Save a sample of the mushroom, if possible, for identification by medical experts or mycologists. This can assist in confirming the species and guiding treatment. Attempting self-treatment or waiting for symptoms to worsen can be dangerous, as proper medical care is important for managing dehydration and other effects. There is no specific antidote; treatment focuses on supportive care to alleviate symptoms.
Identifying Chlorophyllum molybdites Safely
Accurate identification of Chlorophyllum molybdites helps avoid accidental consumption. This large mushroom often has a whitish cap, typically 3 to 12 inches in diameter, which develops light brown or brownish scales as it matures. A distinct feature is the gills, which are white when young but gradually turn a greenish tint as the mushroom ages due to maturing green spores. Another identifying characteristic is a thick, double-edged ring, or annulus, on the stem, which can be white to brownish. The most reliable way to confirm its identity is by performing a spore print, which will reveal a unique green or grayish-green color. This green spore print differentiates it from similar-looking edible species, such as the true parasol mushroom (Macrolepiota procera) or shaggy parasols (Chlorophyllum rhacodes), which produce white spore prints. When uncertain about a mushroom’s identity, avoid consuming it.