Twelve edible mushrooms of the United States/Coprinus comatus

by Thomas Taylor

Figure 6, illustrating a specimen of Coprinus comatus (from original text).

Coprinus comatus, Maned Agaric

The maned agaric (Coprinus comatus) is considered one of the most delicious of all the mushroom tribe when young. The cap is first cylindrical, then bell-shaped, then expanded, more or less scaly, and split longitudinally. The flesh is thick in the center and very thin at the margin. The gills are free, and at first white or pinkish, then black, soon melting into an inky fluid, the color of which is due to the presence of black spores. The ring on the stem is moveable, then disappears. The stem is white and hollow. This mushroom grows in waste and grassy places, lawns and meadows. Only young specimens are desirable for esculent purposes. Mr. Worthington G. Smith, as the result of considerable experience, observes:

"It must be noted, however, that when too young this agaric is rather deficient in flavor and its fibers tenacious. Its flavor is most rich and its texture most delicate when the gills show the pink color with sepia margins."

It decays rapidly and should be cooked immediately after gathering. A very simple method is to broil and serve on toast.