Agaricaceae
False Parasol: Fast Growing
Chlorophyllum molybdites
It is not a plant, but a fungus that grows spontaneously in lawns. It requires high humidity and decomposing organic matter.
Every 4 days
Partial shade
15° - 35°C
60% - 90%
Categories
What is False Parasol?
False Parasol (Chlorophyllum molybdites) is a medium-care plant from the Agaricaceae family. Chlorophyllum molybdites, commonly known as the false parasol or the green-spored lepiota, is a highly toxic basidiomycete fungus. It is characterized by its large white cap with brown scales and, most distinctively, its gills that turn grayish-green at maturity due to its green spores. It is one of...
False Parasol grows up to 25cm, spread of 15cm, watering every 4 days, 15°C – 35°C, 60–90% humidity. It is not suitable for indoor environments and not safe for pets.
Without precautions, ingestion can cause irritation in pets. Keep out of reach of cats and dogs.
How to Care for False Parasol?
TLDR: False Parasol needs Partial shade, watering every 4 days, and temperatures between 15-35°C with 60-90% humidity.
How Often Should You Water False Parasol?
It needs a very humid environment, typically appearing after heavy summer rains.
How Much Light Does False Parasol Need?
It prefers shaded areas or filtered light in gardens and meadows.
What Is the Best Soil for False Parasol?
It thrives in soils with high nitrogen content and wood debris or mulch.
What Pot Should You Use for False Parasol?
Cultivation in pots is not recommended; it grows naturally in nitrogen-rich soils.
What Is False Parasol and Where Does It Come From?
Chlorophyllum molybdites, commonly known as the false parasol or the green-spored lepiota, is a highly toxic basidiomycete fungus. It is characterized by its large white cap with brown scales and, most distinctively, its gills that turn grayish-green at maturity due to its green spores. It is one of the most common causes of mushroom poisoning in North America and tropical regions due to its resemblance to edible species like Macrolepiota procera.
How to Propagate False Parasol?
Spore dispersal
- Requires warm temperatures and heavy rain to fruit.
- Warning! It is extremely toxic; wear gloves when handling.
- 1 Spore collection
A spore print is obtained by placing the cap on a piece of white paper.
- 2 Substrate preparation
Prepare a soil rich in organic matter and keep it constantly moist.
- 3 Inoculation
Disperse the spores over the desired area during high humidity conditions.
Materials needed:
How Big Does False Parasol Grow?
TLDR: False Parasol can reach up to 25cm tall with Fast growth rate.
Max height
25cm
Spread
15cm
Growth rate
Fast
Warning: Toxic Plant
This plant can be toxic if ingested. Keep out of reach of:
Plant Uses
Ornamental
Great for decoration
Is your plant showing symptoms?
Click on the symptom to discover possible causes:
Meaning & Symbolism
Often associated with danger in nature due to its deceptive toxicity.
Compare with similar plants
| Attribute | Difficulty | Light | Watering | Pet Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dark Fieldcap | Medium | Low light | 2d | ⚠️ |
| Azalea | Medium | Partial shade | 3d | ⚠️ |
| Muriel's Bamboo | Medium | Partial shade | 3d | ✓ |
| Bougainvillea | Medium | Direct sun | 7d | ⚠️ |
