The Shaggy Ink Cap (also known as Lawyer's Wig) is a common mushroom of grassy areas at roadsides or open woodland, particularly in the vicinity of birch trees. Growing to a height of about 9 inches to a foot it's probably the safest mushroom to eat as it's not easily confused with any other species. The cap is white and cylindrical with small, shaggy scales. The gills are white graduating to pink and brown, slowly turning black from the edges eventually turning into a black inky sludge - hence the name 'ink cap'. It's best collected before this occurs, but small black bits can be cut off. It also needs to be used quickly once collected. It's delicious fried with bacon or in garlic butter and has a strong taste, but avoid alcohol before and after eating. It can be found from late summer onwards, but October is the best month.