Definition

Noun: 1. Agaricus campestris: A common, edible species of mushroom that grows naturally in moist, open, grassy areas such as meadows and pastures. It is the wild ancestor of the most commonly cultivated commercial mushroom.

Usage and Examples

• The meadow mushroom is prized by foragers for its mild, pleasant flavor.
• You can distinguish a true meadow mushroom by its pink gills that mature to a dark brown.
• Before commercial cultivation became widespread, the meadow mushroom was the primary edible mushroom gathered in Europe and North America.

Advanced Usage and Notes

• The term meadow mushroom specifically refers to the wild species . It is crucial for foragers to accurately identify it, as it has toxic look-alikes (e.g., some species).
• In a historical or botanical context, the meadow mushroom is noted as the genetic source for the cultivated button mushroom ().

Variants and Related Words

• Field mushroom: A common synonym for meadow mushroom.
• Pink-bottom: An informal name referencing the mushroom's distinctive pink gills.
• Agaricus bisporus (Noun): The species name for the commonly cultivated button, cremini, and portobello mushrooms, which were developed from the meadow mushroom.

Synonyms

• Field mushroom
• (scientific name)

Key Differentiators

• Meadow mushroom vs. Store-bought button mushroom: While closely related, the wild meadow mushroom () typically has a more robust flavor and thinner flesh than its cultivated descendant, the common button mushroom ().

Noun

1. common edible mushroom found naturally in moist open soil; the cultivated mushroom of commerce