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PlantSnap
Plant Care
Fairy ring mushroom
(Marasmius oreades)
Also Known As
Fairy ring mushroom, Scotch bonnet, Mushroom of the fairies
About This Plant
Marasmius oreades is a species of small, edible mushroom, commonly known as the fairy ring mushroom or Scotch bonnet. It is a saprotrophic fungus that grows in rings in grasslands and similar habitats. The mushroom is often found in fields and meadows and has a characteristic strong fragrance.
Plant Care Instructions
Outdoor Size Range
Cap diameter ranges from 0.5-3 inches (1.3-7.6 cm), stem height ranges from 1.5-3 inches (3.8-7.6 cm)
Light Requirements
Fairy ring mushrooms grow best in partially shaded areas. They require a moderate amount of sunlight to grow, but too much direct sunlight can cause the fruiting bodies to dry out.
Humidity Needs
Fairy ring mushrooms prefer humid conditions with a relative humidity of around 70%. They can be misted with water to maintain humidity levels.
Fertilizing Schedule
Fairy ring mushrooms do not require fertilizer. They obtain their nutrients from the soil and organic matter.
Pruning Guidelines
Fairy ring mushrooms do not require pruning. The fruiting bodies should be harvested promptly to prevent them from releasing spores.
Common Pests and Diseases
Fairy ring mushrooms are generally not affected by pests or diseases. However, they can be damaged by slugs and snails.
Indoor Size Range
Not suitable for indoor cultivation
Watering Schedule
Fairy ring mushrooms require consistent moisture to grow. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. They do not tolerate drought well.
Temperature Range
Fairy ring mushrooms grow best in cool temperatures ranging from 50-70°F (10-21°C). They can tolerate slightly higher temperatures but do not grow well in hot weather.
Growing Season
Fairy ring mushrooms grow from late spring through to autumn.
Growing Difficulty Level
Easy
USDA Hardiness Zones
3-9
Did You Know?
Fairy ring mushrooms are called so because they often grow in a circular or ring pattern. According to folklore, these rings are caused by dancing fairies or elves who create a circle by dancing around a toadstool. In reality, the rings are caused by the underground mycelium of the fungus growing outward in a circular pattern.
