Silver leaf fungus /Spring / Summer / Autumn / Winter / Inedible The Silver Leaf Fungus (Chondrostereum purpureum) is a fascinating yet inedible fungus often found in UK woodlands, particularly on decaying hardwood trees and stumps. Known for its role as both a decomposer and a plant pathogen, it’s infamous…
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Fragrant Funnel / Summer / Autumn / Toxic The Fragrant Funnel (Clitocybe fragrans) is a toxic mushroom that, despite its alluringly sweet scent, can be dangerous if consumed. Found primarily in coniferous woodlands and grassy clearings during autumn and early winter, this small, seemingly harmless fungus is one foragers in…
Oak Mazegill / Autumn / Summer / Winter / Inedible One of the joys of walking through ancient woodlands is spotting the fascinating fungi that make their home on old, weathered trees. Among these, the Daedalea quercina, or oak mazegill, stands out as a true marvel of nature. Clinging…
Poplar Bell Fungus / Autumn / Inedible There’s something truly special about stumbling across a rare find in the woods—one of those moments when you feel like you’ve uncovered a hidden treasure. That’s exactly how I felt the first time I spotted the Schizophyllum amplum, better known as the poplar…
Hairy Curtain Crust / Spring / Summer / Autumn / Winter / Inedible Through this post we’re going to be delving into the Hairy Curtain Crust Fungi that is sometimes confused for the Turkey Tails Mushroom. If you’re anything like me, the sight of fungi peeking out from tree trunks…
AI is Transforming Wild Food and AI has the potential to revolutionise wild food collection and could bring fresh perspectives to traditional foraging. Smart foraging tools could help people spot mushrooms and understand their growth patterns better. These AI-powered mobile apps could teach eco-friendly harvesting methods too. New technology creates…
Bronze bolete / Summer / Autumn / Edible A lovely mushroom, the Bronze Bolete passes our three bolete test rules which are, ‘red or blue may make you spew, if it’s bitter leave it out of dinner. This is a good chunky edible mushroom and although we don’t find it…
Dog Stinkhorn / Summer / Autumn / Inedible Dog Stinkhorn (Mutinus caninus) is one of those fascinating yet divisive fungi that foragers love to learn about – or love to avoid! With its unique shape, bold colours, and, let’s be honest, unforgettable odour, it’s certainly one of the most distinctive…
Spotted Toughshank / Summer / Autumn / Inedible The Spotted Toughshank (Rhodocollybia maculata), is a common woodland species that catches the eye with its distinct appearance yet isn’t suitable for the table. Known for its pale, cream-to-tan cap speckled with characteristic dark spots, this tough and fibrous mushroom is more…
As an avid forager and mushroom enthusiast, I used to be really worried about poisonous mushrooms in the UK, I’ve always been fascinated by the diverse world of fungi in the UK. But let me tell you, not all mushrooms are created equal! Some can be downright dangerous, and that’s…