From the form of the plant as well as the peculiarities of the veil in the larger specimens, it is related to A. arvensis and A. placomyces, more closely to the former. It occurs during mid-summer and early autumn. Figure 10 is from plants (No. 1986 C. U. herbarium) collected in open woods at Ithaca.
Plate 4.—Agaricus placomyces. Figure 21.—Upper view of cap, side view of stem. Figure 22.—Under view of plant showing radiately torn under side of the double veil. (3/4 natural size.) Copyright.
Plate 5, Figure 23.—Agaricus placomyces. Three different views, see text for explanations. Dark scales on cap. (Natural size.) Copyright.
Agaricus (Psalliota) subrufescens Pk. Edible.—The Agaricus subrufescens was described by Dr. Peck from specimens collected on a compost heap composed chiefly of leaves, at Glen Cove, Long Island. It occurs sometimes in greenhouses. In one case reported by Peck it appeared in soil prepared for forcing cucumbers in a greenhouse in Washington, D. C.
According to the description the pileus becomes convex or broadly expanded, is covered with silky hairs and numerous minute scales. The color is whitish, grayish or dull reddish brown, the center being usually smooth and darker, while the flesh is white. The gills change from white to pinkish and blackish brown in age. The stem is long, nearly cylindrical or somewhat enlarged or bulbous at the base, first stuffed, then hollow, white. The annulus is thick, and the under side marked by loose threads or scales.