The Prince

Agaricus augustus forms large and distinctive agarics. The cap shape is hemispherical during the so-called button stage, and then expands, becoming convex and finally flat, with a diameter from 8–30 cm (3–12 in). The cap cuticle is dry, and densely covered with concentrically arranged, brown-coloured scales on a white to yellow background. The flesh is thick, firm and white and may discolour yellow when bruised. The gills are crowded and pallid at first, and turn pink then dark brown with maturity. The gills are not attached to the stem; they are free. Immature specimens bear a delicate white partial veil with darker-coloured warts, extending from the stem to the cap periphery. The stem is clavate and 7–30 cm (3–12 in) tall, and 2–6 cm (3⁄4–2+1⁄4 in) thick. In mature specimens, the partial veil is torn and left behind as a pendulous ring adorning the stem. Above the ring, the stem is white to yellow and smooth. Below, it is covered with numerous small scales. Its flesh is thick, white and sometimes has a narrow central hollow. The stem base extends deeply into the substrate. The mushroom's odour is strong and sweet, similar to almond extract, marzipan or maraschino cherry, due to the presence of benzaldehyde and benzyl alcohol. Its taste has been described as not distinctive. It shows a red positive Schaeffer's test reaction. …

Agaricus augustus has a widespread distribution, occurring throughout Europe, Africa, Asia, and North America. The mushroom is found in deciduous and coniferous woods and in gardens and by roadside verges. The fungus is saprotrophic and terrestrial; it acquires nutrients from decaying dead organic matter and its fruiting bodies occur on humus-rich soil. The species seems adapted to thriving near human activity, as it also emerges from disturbed ground. In Europe, the species fruits in late summer and autumn. In North America, it is found from April to December.

This mushroom is a choice edible for most people, though it is best to eat only small amounts, due to its high cadmium concentration. It is collected widely for consumption in Eurasia, Canada, the United States, and some parts of Mexico.