Amazing Nature Thematic Challenge - Flowerpot Parasol

While I understand that this week's edition of the Amazing Nature Thematic Challenge is meant to highlight many of the cultivated natural specimens, I thought that I may introduce an often overlooked wild species that may be growing in your flowerpot this very minute: the Flowerpot parasol (Leucocoprinus birnbaumii).

The two small yellow mushrooms pictured above were found growing in a flowerpot just outside my parent's home in July, 2020. The name of this species is the Flowerpot parasol. While the species is most often found growing wild in the tropics and subtropics across the globe, it is also known to inhabit cooler temperate climates as an introduced species in greenhouses and plant pots. This saprotrophic species demonstrates a vivid yellow coloration when young that becomes increasingly muted with age. The bright yellow color of this species is the result of a pair of alkaloid pigments known as Birnbaumins (Birnbaumin A & Birnbaumin B). While very little toxicological study has been undertaken to study these alkaloid compounds, they are known to cause gastric ulcers if consumed. Because of this, the species is considered to be toxic.

I enjoy finding this particular species since it is a reminder to me that even the most controlled and cultivated of environments will always maintain an element of "wildness" to them. Keep an eye out for this beautiful fungal species the next time you are watering your houseplants. Just be sure not to take a bite!