Yellow Fungus in House Plants

Lepiota lutea, also known as Leucocoprinus birnbaumii, is a small, yellow mushroom commonly found growing around houseplants. The fungi may be called yellow parasol or flower pot parasol as they have bell- or parasol-shaped caps.

Identification

Yellow parasol mushrooms may appear during any time of the year. The mushrooms are saprophytic, meaning they live off dead material in the soil. Saprophytic fungi may also be white in color.

Treatment

Saprophytic fungal growths do not require treatment and will not cause a houseplant harm. The fungus is poisonous to humans and pets. Growers may simply remove the growth or repot the plant if they do not like the appearance of the fungus or if there is a danger to members of the household.

Warnings

Lepiota lutea will not respond to fungicide treatment, but may respond to less frequent watering. Clemson Cooperative Extension warns growers not to confuse harmless fungus growths with salt buildup on the soil, which may appear as colored patches on soil and cause plant damage such as brown leaf tips.

References

• Iowa State University Extension: Mushrooms in Houseplant Pots
• University of Wisconsin: Tom Volk's Fungus of the Month for February 2002
• North Dakota State University Extension: Questions On: Repotting Houseplants
• Clemson Cooperative Extension: Houseplant Diseases and Disorders
• North Dakota State University Extension Service: Houseplants: Proper Care and Management of Pest Problems

Resources

• Purdue Extension: Houseplant Problems