Fairy-ring Champignon. Fig. 28.
(Marasmius oreades.)553.
If possible, this species is better than the last, and no recommendation can be too strong for it. The exquisitely rich and delicious flavour of this plant when broiled with butter must be tasted to be understood. It is firmer than the meadow mushroom, and, whilst having its peculiar aroma, it possesses it in a concentrated form. Even Mr. Berkeley, who would be the last man in the world to subscribe to a doubtful species, says, “it is the very best of all our fungi.” It may be pickled, used for ketchup, or dried for future use.
Marasmius oreades grows in rings in short pastures, on downs, and by roadsides everywhere (but never in woods). It is somewhat tough, the solid stem particularly so, the gills wide apart, and cream-coloured.
This species has no downy hairs at the base of the stem. Certain other species of Marasmius, frequently found growing on dead leaves in woods, and possessing this hairy down, are to be avoided. There is a poisonous plant sometimes found in similar situations, and often with the Fairy-Ring Champignon (M. urens), fig. 30, Poisonous Sheet. I once tested its qualities (by accident). See description.