Fairy Ring Mushroom

The fairy ring mushroom, Marasmius oreades, is an edible fungus native to North America and Europe with a small, tan or buff colored cap one to five centimeters across, a characteristic central bump, a thin tough stem and white gills. It grows in grassy places such as lawns and meadows, often fruiting in troops, arcs or rings during summer and autumn, the pattern that gives the species its name. Though it can be confused with some toxic Clitocybe species, it is considered a choice edible prized for its firm texture and meaty, spicy flavor.