kale parasolzwam
Lepiota rufipes
The kale parasolzwam (Lepiota rufipes) is a distinctive mushroom species characterized by its pale cap with brownish scales and notably reddish-brown stem base that gives it its scientific name. This saprotrophic fungus plays a crucial ecological role in forest ecosystems by decomposing organic matter and recycling nutrients back into the soil.
Taxonomy & Classification
Kingdom
Fungi
Phylum
Basidiomycota
Class
Agaricomycetes
Order
Agaricales
Family
Agaricaceae
Genus
Lepiota
kale parasolzwam belongs to the family Agaricaceae, order Agaricales, within the Agaricomycetes class.
Species Profile
The kale parasolzwam (Lepiota rufipes) is a distinctive mushroom species characterized by its pale cap with brownish scales and notably reddish-brown stem base that gives it its scientific name. This saprotrophic fungus plays a crucial ecological role in forest ecosystems by decomposing organic matter and recycling nutrients back into the soil. It typically forms small, scattered fruiting bodies during autumn months in temperate woodland environments.
Lepiota rufipes faces significant decline due to habitat loss from agricultural expansion and urban development across its limited European range. The species is particularly vulnerable due to its specialized ecological requirements and small, fragmented populations that are sensitive to environmental changes.
Key Facts
Habitat & Distribution
This species inhabits mature deciduous and mixed forests, particularly favoring areas with rich humus layers beneath oak, beech, and maple trees. It thrives in well-drained woodland soils with abundant leaf litter and decaying organic matter, often found along forest edges and in clearings with partial shade.
Threats
IUCN Red List: Endangered
Lepiota rufipes faces significant decline due to habitat loss from agricultural expansion and urban development across its limited European range. The species is particularly vulnerable due to its specialized ecological requirements and small, fragmented populations that are sensitive to environmental changes.
Habitat loss from agricultural intensification
Urban development and infrastructure expansion
Climate change affecting soil conditions
Fragmentation of suitable woodland habitats
Collection pressure from foragers
Community Sightings
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Sources & Attribution
How to Cite
IUCN: IUCN (2025). The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2025-1. Available at: https://www.iucnredlist.org. doi:10.2305/IUCN.UK.2025-1.RLTS
GBIF: GBIF.org (2025). GBIF Home Page. Available at: https://www.gbif.org
This page: SpeciesRadar (2025). kale parasolzwam (Lepiota rufipes). SpeciesRadar: Intelligence for Earth's Biodiversity. Available at: https://speciesradar.org/species/kale-parasolzwam