Yellow Houseplant Mushroom (Leucocoprinus birnbaumii)

Yellow Houseplant Mushroom

Leucocoprinus birnbaumii

It pops up silently in potted soil, a tiny yellow umbrella of hidden decay. Saprobic fungus; common names: flowerpot parasol, plant pot dapperling.

Low light
2–3/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Grows exclusively in low to no direct light, colonizing shaded potted soil
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Watering Thrives in overwatered, moisture-retentive potting soil; reduced watering inhibits growth
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Temperature Prefers warm, humid conditions; does not survive temperatures below 15°C
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Characteristics

  • Cap: Bright lemon-yellow, convex expanding to flat; covered in fine scales when young
  • Stem: Slender, hollow, with a fragile, temporary ring near the cap
  • Gills: White to pale yellow, free from the central stem
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Care Guide

Watering

Allow top 2–3 cm of soil to dry between waterings to reduce moisture buildup

Fertilization

Avoid excess organic fertilizers as they provide additional food for the fungus. Do not apply fertilizers to potted plants colonized by this fungus

No recommended DIY fertilizers:DIY fertilizers will increase organic matter in soil and promote fungal growth; avoid all organic amendments until colonization is eliminated
Pruning
  • Remove fruiting bodies immediately when spotted to prevent spore dispersal
  • Improve soil drainage by adding perlite or coarse sand to potting mix
  • Replace the top 5 cm of potting soil if fungal growth recurs
  • Avoid overwatering to reduce favorable growing conditions
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; ingestion leads to vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and lethargy

Humans: Ingestion causes gastrointestinal distress including nausea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: N/A (considered a nuisance pest in potted plants)