common ink cap

Description:

is an edible mushroom found in Europe and North America. Previously known as Coprinus atramentarius, it is the second best known ink cap and previous member of the genus Coprinus after C. comatus. It is a widespread and common fungus found throughout the northern hemisphere. Measuring 3–7 cm in diameter, the greyish or brownish-grey cap is initially bell-shaped, is furrowed, and later splits. The colour is more brownish in the centre of the cap, which later flattens before melting. The very crowded gills are free; they are whitish at first but rapidly turn black and easily deliquesce. The short stipe measures 7–17 cm high by 1.5 cm in diameter, is grey in colour, and lacks a ring. The spore print is dark brown, and the almond-shaped spores measure 8–11 by 5–6 μm. The grey-brown cap is initially bell-shaped before opening, after which, it flattens and disintegrates. The flesh is thin and pale grey in colour. and the taste mild. It can be eaten but is poisonous when consumed with alcohol – hence another common name, tippler's bane.

Habitat:

Clumps of mushrooms arise after rain from spring to autumn, commonly in urban and disturbed habitats such as vacant lots and lawns, as well as grassy areas.

Notes:

I made the picture with my new IPad2