=Agaricus gambosus=
=Pileus:= Three to six inches in diameter,
occasionally much larger; rounded convex, at length
more flat and commonly cracked here and there;
surface smooth, thick, and fleshy, suggesting soft
kid leather. Color, pale ochre or yellowish white.
=Gills:= Densely crowded; yellowish white; very moist;
various lengths; each annexed to stem by a small
sharp downward curve.
=Stem:= Solid; stout; substance creamy white.
=Spores:= White.
=Taste:= Highly flavored; by some considered "too
gamy."
=Odor:= Powerfully strong, perhaps rank.
=Habitat:= Fields, lawns, and pastures, frequently
growing in broken rings or crescents.
[Illustration: PLATE VII AGARICUS GAMBOSUS.]
By many fungus-feasters this species is prized as the _ne plus ultra_,
and most various are the methods of its culinary preparation, either in
the form of mince and fricassee with various meats, suitably seasoned
with salt, pepper, and butter, or simply broiled and served on buttered
toast. An appetizing recipe for this especial mushroom is given on page
313.