Common ink cap
Coprinopsis atramentaria
The common ink cap is a mushroom whose grey-brown, bell-shaped cap melts from the edge inwards into a black, inky liquid as it matures. It contains coprine: alcohol taken up to three days later causes flushing, nausea, vomiting and palpitations.
Where it's found
Tufts on buried wood in grassland, meadows, vacant lots and urban areas from late spring to autumn.
Distribution
Widespread across the Northern Hemisphere, including Eurasia and North America; also found in South Africa and Australia.
Similar species
Identification suggestions (from the community or from AI) and the information here may be wrong; this app never confirms that anything is safe to eat. Do not consume wild plants, mushrooms or seafood without expert confirmation. Nothing here is medical advice.