Fungi

I learn through spending time with our son, and joining him in his activities. Forest school is one the best examples of this. Although, sadly, that has currently fallen to one side because of the latest lockdown. Still, today’s post considers one of our favourite learning activities so far. Fungi.

Before beginning the post, please remember that I am not an expert on fungi. Do not take my word as the final authority on identification and use of the selection presented below.

Turkey Tail

Colourful fans overlap each other as they grow in stacks from tree trunks and stumps. There is an abundance of this fungus in the woods. Ranging in shape and colour, turkey tail is known for its immune system boosting properties. Rich in anti-oxidants, it is used widely for medicinal purposes, including in support of cancer treatments. Turkey tail grows in a number of countries around the world, and throughout the seasons.

Candle Snuff

This pretty fungus is easily overlooked. But once spotted, it’s likely that there will be more clusters growing nearby. Also known as ‘Stag’s Horn’, the fungus has medicinal properties. It is anti-viral, and is used in some tumour treatments. Although edible, it is so small and tough, that it is not used for human consumption.

Sulphur Tuft

A common sight in British woodlands, this mushroom is particularly prevalent in autumn. Sulphur tufts grow together on dead and rotting wood. Although it looks very much like mushrooms which may be bought for consumption, sulphur tuft is not edible. Attractive to look at, but not to eat.

 

False Chanterelle

A Chanterelle look-a-like, this mushroom is considered poisonous. Some claim to have eaten it with no ill effects, but erring on the side of caution, official guides tend to advise to steer clear. Key differences between the False Chanterelle, and the edible (and sought after) Chanterelle, include the gills which exist beneath the cap of the former, but not the latter. And Chanterelles grow symbiotically with tree roots so are quite deeply embedded where they grow. The False Chanterelle, however, grows on forest detritus and is easy to pick. Although not a mushroom to seek out in particular, it is one to learn if wanting to harvest edible fungus.

King Alfred’s Cakes

Top of my favourites’ list of those we have found so far. An interesting looking black growth on dead or decaying wood, which opens to reveal a beautiful bulb like layered interior. This fungus provides food and (internal) shelter for a variety of insects and other small beasts. They are good to use in helping to light a fire, as they burn in a similar way to charcoal briquettes. Most interestingly of all, they will keep embers glowing. By splitting, and lighting a dry fungus, the ember inside will keep for hours. Our ancestors are thought to have used this fungus for transporting glowing embers from one location to the next.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I hope you’ve enjoyed this post. If you’d like to find out more about about fungi, the Wildlife Trusts and the Woodland Trust have a wealth of information online.