Common Ink Cap

Description:

Coprinopsis atramentaria, commonly known as the common ink cap or inky cap, is an edible (but sometimes poisonous, see below) 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. 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. The grey-brown cap is initially bell-shaped before opening, after which, it flattens and disintegrates. The flesh is thin and the taste mild. It can be eaten but is poisonous when consumed with alcohol – hence another common name, tippler's bane.

Habitat:

Coprinopsis atramentaria occurs across the Northern Hemisphere, including Europe, North America,[3] and Asia,[6] but has also been found in Australia,[7] where it has been recorded from such urban locations as the Royal Botanic Gardens in Sydney and around Lake Torrens,[8] and also in South Africa.[9] Like many ink caps, it grows in tufts. It is commonly associated with buried wood and is found in grassland, meadows, disturbed ground, and open terrain from late spring to autumn.[5] Fruiting bodies have been known to push their way up through asphalt[7] and even tennis courts.[10] It is also common in urban areas and appears in vacant lots,[3] and tufts of fungi can be quite large and fruit several times a year.[3] If dug up, the mycelium can often be found originating on buried dead wood.[