The Fungus Among Us
Hemlock Varnish Shelf/Reishi
Ganoderma tsugae commonly known as the Hemlock Varnish Shelf or Reishi grows almost exclusively on dying and dead Hemlock trees (Tsuga canadensis). They are sometimes found on Spruce and some Pines. Since the 1950's when the invasive and non-native Hemlock Woolly Adelgid arrived in America, nearly 90% of all the Eastern Hemlock trees in the Appalachians have been impacted. The Hemlock Varnish Shelf is a bioindicator of big changes happening in our Appalachian ecosystems.
Ganoderma tsugae is recognized by its shiny red to orange skin. Gano comes from Greek for shiny and derma for skin, hence its common name "Varnish Shelf". It has pores for a reproductive surface.
Ganoderma tsugae is edible but too tough to be considered a choice edible. It is best used to make a tincture using alcohol and water to extract the medicinal components it contains. It has been used for centuries in Korea, Japan and China for therapeutic purposes.
In Japan it is known as "Reishi". In China it is called Songshan Lingzhi. Lingzhi translates to, "Mushroom of Immortality" or "Herb of Spiritual Potency" or "The Divine Fungus".
The US FDA doesn't like us using the words "medicine or medicinal" when we're not referring to an approved pharmaceutical, so sometimes the term "functional" mushroom is used. Nonetheless, this article is not meant to treat, cure, prevent or diagnose any diseases. Always consult a licensed health professional.
In Japan it is known as "Reishi". In China it is called Songshan Lingzhi. Lingzhi translates to, "Mushroom of Immortality" or "Herb of Spiritual Potency" or "The Divine Fungus".
The US FDA doesn't like us using the words "medicine or medicinal" when we're not referring to an approved pharmaceutical, so sometimes the term "functional" mushroom is used. Nonetheless, this article is not meant to treat, cure, prevent or diagnose any diseases. Always consult a licensed health professional.
The Varnish Shelf belongs to the Ganoderma Genus and shares most of the same medicinal qualites with its more well-known relative Ganoderma lucidum. Ganoderma tsugae contains antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties.
Antioxidants play a crucial role in neutralizing harmful free radicals and protecting our bodies against oxidative stress. Several studies have demonstrated that extracts of Ganoderma tsugae can reduce cellular damage and mitigate the risk of chronic diseases.
Research has also shown that it is effective as an anti-inflammatory. Chronic inflammation can be associated with cardiovascular disease, diabetes and certain types of cancer.
As an immunomodulator, it enhances the activity of natural killer cells and promotes the production of cytokines, which are important immune system regulators. This can potentially strengthen the body's defense mechanisms; aiding in the prevention of infections and immune-related disorders.
The most noteworthy quality of Ganoderma tsugae is its anticancer qualities. Studies have revealed that bioactive compounds found in extracts exhibit cytotoxic effects on cancer cells and inhibit tumor growth.
If that isn't enough, it has also been found to have beneficial effects on liver health. Research shows that Ganoderma tsugae possesses hepatoprotective properties which help protect the liver caused by toxins, viruses and other factors. This makes it a VERY promising candidate in the management of liver disease.
If you are interested in seeing a Varnish Shelf mushroom, stop in and see one at The Necessary Mercantile. If you want to make your own extract, we have a free information sheet with the instructions. We sell this mushroom dried and we sometimes have fresh for sale.
Antioxidants play a crucial role in neutralizing harmful free radicals and protecting our bodies against oxidative stress. Several studies have demonstrated that extracts of Ganoderma tsugae can reduce cellular damage and mitigate the risk of chronic diseases.
Research has also shown that it is effective as an anti-inflammatory. Chronic inflammation can be associated with cardiovascular disease, diabetes and certain types of cancer.
As an immunomodulator, it enhances the activity of natural killer cells and promotes the production of cytokines, which are important immune system regulators. This can potentially strengthen the body's defense mechanisms; aiding in the prevention of infections and immune-related disorders.
The most noteworthy quality of Ganoderma tsugae is its anticancer qualities. Studies have revealed that bioactive compounds found in extracts exhibit cytotoxic effects on cancer cells and inhibit tumor growth.
If that isn't enough, it has also been found to have beneficial effects on liver health. Research shows that Ganoderma tsugae possesses hepatoprotective properties which help protect the liver caused by toxins, viruses and other factors. This makes it a VERY promising candidate in the management of liver disease.
If you are interested in seeing a Varnish Shelf mushroom, stop in and see one at The Necessary Mercantile. If you want to make your own extract, we have a free information sheet with the instructions. We sell this mushroom dried and we sometimes have fresh for sale.
Previous Fungi
Plums and Custard Mushroom
The Tait brothers brought another "fun"gal discovery to The Necessary Mercantile for identifying this week. Thanks for sharing your find!
Plums and Custard mushrooms, Tricholomopsis rutilans, are easily recognizable by their distinctive colors. The cap color ranges from reddish-orange to plum purple, giving it an eye-catching appearance. The cap of the mushroom is convex when young, later flattening out. It has gills which are custard yellow and attached to the stem (adnate). The spore print is white. The stem is usually curved away from the stump or trunk that it is growing from. The top of the stem/stipe is pale and then covered in plum colored scales towards the base.
Plums and Custard mushrooms, Tricholomopsis rutilans, grow on dead/decaying coniferous (especially spruce) wood. They are found throughout Europe and North America.
The Devil's Urn Mushroom
Jim and Bill Tait, attendees from our previous Enchanted Nature mushroom class sent a picture of some Devil's Urn mushrooms for help with identification. Thank you for sharing guys!
The Devil's Urn, Urnula craterium, is an attractive mushroom found in eastern North America, Asia and Europe. This mushroom gets its name from its distinctive shape, resembling an urn. Its uncomplimentary moniker of "Devil's Urn" probably comes from it striking black color.
This fungus is a decomposer so you will find it growing on wood; generally firmly attached to sticks and branches. It can be parasitic on Oak and other hardwoods causing cankers to form.
The reproductive surface is pores. The spore print is black to dark brown and if you look at the spores under a microscope, you would find that they are sausage shaped.
While this fungal fruit is not listed as toxic, it is reported to cause severe gastrointestinal distress. Descriptions from those who have tasted it call it tough, foul-tasting and inedible.
The reproductive surface is pores. The spore print is black to dark brown and if you look at the spores under a microscope, you would find that they are sausage shaped.
While this fungal fruit is not listed as toxic, it is reported to cause severe gastrointestinal distress. Descriptions from those who have tasted it call it tough, foul-tasting and inedible.
When the Devil's Urn reaches the end of its maturity, the top can fan out appearing similar to a Black Trumpet mushroom (Craterellus cornucopioides). The distinctive clues to telling the difference between a Devil's Urn and Black Trumpet mushroom are the season and substrate.
Devil's Urn mushrooms appear at the same time Morels do; spring.
Black Trumpets fruit in the summer.
Devil's Urn mushrooms grow on wood. Black Trumpets grow on soil.
If you find any interesting mushroom, please share a pic or bring them in to
The Necessary Mercantile.
Devil's Urn mushrooms appear at the same time Morels do; spring.
Black Trumpets fruit in the summer.
Devil's Urn mushrooms grow on wood. Black Trumpets grow on soil.
If you find any interesting mushroom, please share a pic or bring them in to
The Necessary Mercantile.
Wine Cap Mushrooms
Stropharia rugosoannulata
Stropharia rugosoannulata mushrooms have a few common names: Wine Cap Mushrooms, The Garden Giant, King Stropharia and the Japanese call them Saketsubatake. Seeing the immense size that they can grow to exemplifies where the name, "Garden Giant" comes from.
Stropharia rugosoannulata mushrooms have a few common names: Wine Cap Mushrooms, The Garden Giant, King Stropharia and the Japanese call them Saketsubatake. Seeing the immense size that they can grow to exemplifies where the name, "Garden Giant" comes from.
Wine caps are native to North America and Europe. You find them typically growing in gardens, meadows, and woodlands. The mushroom has a distinctive reddish-brown cap that can reach more than 12 inches in diameter and a thick stem. The gills of the mushroom are initially purple, but as they mature, they become a deep chocolate brown. The spore print is dark purple brown to almost black. This mushroom does have a veil that turns into a ring around the stem. We call this ring an annulus. When the Wine Cap is pulled, you will find large threads that resemble roots. These are called rhizomorphs.
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The Wine Cap mushroom is edible. It has a very meaty texture and savory taste. It is often used as a meat substitute in vegetarian dishes. They should be harvested before the cap is fully open for the best flavor and texture. In addition to its culinary uses, the Wine Cap mushroom has been found to have medicinal properties. It contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antitumor effects.
The Wine Cap mushroom is easy to cultivate and has become popular among home gardeners and permaculture enthusiasts. The mushroom can be grown in woodchip mulch, sawdust or straw. Once you've established your bed, they can provide a sustainable source of food for years.
The Wine Cap mushroom is easy to cultivate and has become popular among home gardeners and permaculture enthusiasts. The mushroom can be grown in woodchip mulch, sawdust or straw. Once you've established your bed, they can provide a sustainable source of food for years.
If you are interested in growing Wine Caps, now (spring) is the time to start them. You can build a bed with four logs for sides (bonus points if those logs are inoculated with Shiitake mushroom spawn). Lay cardboard over the ground. Remove any tape or staples if necessary. Then add a 4-6 inch layer of sawdust, wood chips and/or straw. Break up spawn and sprinkle over the layer of substrate.
Then add another few inches of wood chips, saw dust and/or straw. Water, water and water some more. You want your substrate completely saturated and never to dry out completely. Be advised that there are some lookalike mushrooms, so be sure of your identification.
Making Wine Cap beds with your garden plants like blueberries or tomatoes, is a win-win. Stropharia rugosoannulata captures phosphorus, breaks down organic material making nutrients available to plants, attracts earthworms, eats coliform bacteria and reduces erosion. The cardboard and mulch/straw prevents weeds.
Making Wine Cap beds with your garden plants like blueberries or tomatoes, is a win-win. Stropharia rugosoannulata captures phosphorus, breaks down organic material making nutrients available to plants, attracts earthworms, eats coliform bacteria and reduces erosion. The cardboard and mulch/straw prevents weeds.
If you're interested in learning more about Wine Caps or growing your own, stop in and see us at The Necessary Mercantile, 3816 Churchville Avenue, Churchville.
We have a variety of books and can help you get spawn.
The False Morel Mushroom
Gyromitra esculenta
Gyromitra esculenta
The false morel mushroom (Gyromitra esculenta) is a potentially dangerous fungus that can be found in forests of Europe, Asia, and North America. As the name implies, false morels are not morel mushrooms and should not be eaten due to their toxic properties. This mushroom contains a toxin called gyromitrin, which can cause a range of symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and even death. Gyromitrin, is converted by the liver into N-methylhydrazine (MMH). This chemical is also a component in rocket fuel! Despite the dangers associated with the false morel, some people do eat it claiming that it has health benefits. There is no scientific evidence to support the idea that false morels have any health benefits. In fact, the consumption of false morels has been linked to several cases of severe illness and deaths. Some people mistakenly believe that the false morel can be made safe for consumption by boiling or drying, this is not true. The toxin gyromitrin is not destroyed by cooking, and there is no reliable method for removing it from the mushroom.
The false morel mushroom can be identified by its wrinkled, brain-like cap that ranges in color from brown to reddish-brown. True morels have pits. It typically grows in the same season as true morels and can be found in damp, wooded areas. While field guides call this a lookalike for true morels, you can see that they really don't look that much like each other. Another clue that you have a false morel is that the stem is not hollow. Morels ALWAYS have a hollow stem.
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If you are ever unsure about your finds, bring them by
The Necessary Mercantile
and one of our certified mushroom foragers will help you with identification.
The Necessary Mercantile
and one of our certified mushroom foragers will help you with identification.
Which Way Is Up?
Fungi know which way is up.
Fungi know which way is up.
Geotropism, also known as gravitropism, is the response of fungi to the force of gravity. This is how fungi maintain their orientation and grow in the correct direction. With fungi, geotropism is especially important during the formation of the fruiting body. Mushrooms need grow in the upright position to ensure successful spore dispersal.
In the image above, you will notice the larger and older Cracked Cap Polypore mushroom is perpendicular to the ground while the new, younger mushrooms are growing parallel to the ground. This tree trunk was obviously still standing when the larger mushroom formed.
Mushrooms exhibit positive geotropism, which means they grow towards the direction of gravity. As spores begin to germinate, the mycelium grows underground in a horizontal direction. As the mycelium matures and when conditions are right, the mushroom begins to form.
The ability of mushrooms to respond to gravity is an essential component in their growth and survival. Without geotropism, the fruiting body would not be able to grow in the correct orientation, which would impact spore dispersal and reduce the mushroom's ability to reproduce. Additionally, the force of gravity plays a role in the movement of nutrients and water throughout the mushroom, allowing it to maintain its structure and function properly.
Mushrooms exhibit positive geotropism, which means they grow towards the direction of gravity. As spores begin to germinate, the mycelium grows underground in a horizontal direction. As the mycelium matures and when conditions are right, the mushroom begins to form.
The ability of mushrooms to respond to gravity is an essential component in their growth and survival. Without geotropism, the fruiting body would not be able to grow in the correct orientation, which would impact spore dispersal and reduce the mushroom's ability to reproduce. Additionally, the force of gravity plays a role in the movement of nutrients and water throughout the mushroom, allowing it to maintain its structure and function properly.
The Morel Mushroom (Part 3)
Morchella spp.
We've discussed when and where to find Morel mushrooms.
In this third and final Morel post, we will discuss why you may NOT be finding Morels.
- There may not be any Morels there. Just because you find a pond does not mean that there are fish in it. I have a property with dying Ash trees, Poplars, Sycamores and a couple of old apple trees but have never seen a Morel there. Do recheck areas repeatedly before giving up. Your timing could be off.
- Somebody or something got there before you. Black bears, squirrels, raccoons and other animals enjoy Morels. These critters have the benefit of superior senses of smell and eyesight. If other people are hunting the same spot, it could be that you should have woke up and got out earlier.
- Environmental conditions are not correct. Like every other mushroom, Morels need the right air and soil temperatures, humidity and rainfall. When you do find a Morel, note all of the details so that you can reference them next year.
- You don't have a search image burned into your eyes. You could be looking right at a Morel and not see it. Stare at pictures of Morels or find one in the forest. Study it closely. When you're slowly walking and scanning the ground, block out anything that is not a Morel.
Good luck!
The Morel Mushroom (Part 2)
Morchella spp.
Last week we focused on when to find the elusive and delicious Morel mushroom. Now we'll cover where to find them. Many mushroom enthusiasts will tell you that they grow wherever they want to. This is true, however some trees will be better bets than others. Tree identification is an important tool when looking for a Morel patch. This can be hard because the leaves aren't generally fully formed by Morel season. The bark of a tree can help with identification. Sycamores for instance, have a very unique bark.
Tulip Poplars have flowers in the canopy.
Another way to identify a tree or stand of trees is to look at the dried leaves
that are laying on the ground nearby.
that are laying on the ground nearby.
There are obviously Oak trees nearby.
So where do we look for Morels. Growing around Oaks, Poplars and Sycamores is a good place to look. They are also found around decaying Elm and Ash trees. They also like Hickory and apple trees. We do caution you about hunting Morels in old apple orchards. Fruit growers often use a lot of insecticides. Many of the old insecticides used heavy metals as an active ingredient and those pesticides are persistent in the soil. Mushrooms can bioaccumulate heavy metals to the point of being toxic. Some folks have found Morels in stands of White Pine.
In the early part of the season, hunt south facing slopes and other areas where sunlight can warm the soil. Woodland edges can be productive early in the season. As the spring progresses, you can hunt shadier areas and north slopes.
Another area to look is areas where the soil has been disturbed. Clear cuts and burned areas can sometimes produce a boom in Morel growth.
The last advice on where to look for Morel mushrooms is near other Morels. If you've found one, stand still and scan the area because there are most likely more growing nearby.
So where do we look for Morels. Growing around Oaks, Poplars and Sycamores is a good place to look. They are also found around decaying Elm and Ash trees. They also like Hickory and apple trees. We do caution you about hunting Morels in old apple orchards. Fruit growers often use a lot of insecticides. Many of the old insecticides used heavy metals as an active ingredient and those pesticides are persistent in the soil. Mushrooms can bioaccumulate heavy metals to the point of being toxic. Some folks have found Morels in stands of White Pine.
In the early part of the season, hunt south facing slopes and other areas where sunlight can warm the soil. Woodland edges can be productive early in the season. As the spring progresses, you can hunt shadier areas and north slopes.
Another area to look is areas where the soil has been disturbed. Clear cuts and burned areas can sometimes produce a boom in Morel growth.
The last advice on where to look for Morel mushrooms is near other Morels. If you've found one, stand still and scan the area because there are most likely more growing nearby.
The Morel Mushroom (Part 1)
Morchella spp.
Ah yes, one of the most familiar and sought after wild mushrooms on the planet. It is also one of the most frustratingly elusive fungi in the forest. Chefs and eaters agree that this is one DEEELICIOUS mushroom, so the work of searching for them can be met with great rewards.
The questions that every beginner has are, "when do they grow?" and "where do they grow". We will spend some time discussing this, but first, let's get familiar with the mushroom.
When you first find or see a Morel, the most identifiable characteristic is the cap. Unlike most mushrooms that have gills, pores or ridges, the morel is "pitted". This fungal fruit falls into a unique group known as ascomycetes. There aren't many mushrooms that resemble a Morel so positive identification is reasonably easy. All species of Morel in North America are edible but we caution you to never eat a mushroom unless you are 100% sure that it is safe.
The colors can range from blonde to brown to tinged black.
The height averages 1 to 4 inches, depending on the species, but stories and pictures of 12 inch Morels weighing a pound can be found throughout the internet.
The colors can range from blonde to brown to tinged black.
The height averages 1 to 4 inches, depending on the species, but stories and pictures of 12 inch Morels weighing a pound can be found throughout the internet.
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When should you start searching for Morels? The "Ol' Timers" will tell you that when the Oak leaves are as big as a mouse's ear, start looking. Other natural indicators are when the Lilacs are budding, the Bloodroot is flowering and when the Mayapples are open. Ideal air temperatures are 60º-70º and 50's at night. The soil temperature should be above 50º. These conditions are beginning. Although it is unusually early, soil temps are 50+ degrees and daytime temps are falling within the window of Morel magic. With the rain this weekend, I would recommend keeping your eyes open if you are walking in the woods.
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You want to focus on sunny breaks in the trees. Hardwoods are recommended but we will get into more detail about this next week. South facing slopes and any area where the sun may be warming the earth is a good bet. A thermometer that you can poke into the soil is a handy tool. Remember that you want the soil to be 50+ degrees. After a rain, your odds of success increase. Your location, altitude and the local ecosystem will all have an effect on when these elite hide and seek players emerge. Be sure to visit us next week for more information on the Morel mushroom.
If you are interested in learning more about mushroom hunting, Enchanted Nature Tours will be offering a class on Sunday, April 23, 2023 at The Necessary Mercantile. Find out more here: www.enchantednaturetours.com/mushroom-class
If you are interested in learning more about mushroom hunting, Enchanted Nature Tours will be offering a class on Sunday, April 23, 2023 at The Necessary Mercantile. Find out more here: www.enchantednaturetours.com/mushroom-class
The Mica Cap Mushroom
Coprinellus micaceus
Mica cap mushrooms belong to the genus Coprinellus and are related to Shaggy Manes and Inky Caps . Mica Cap mushrooms are found in North America, Europe, and Asia. You will find them growing in clusters on dead wood. They prefer stumps, logs and buried wood but you may also find them growing at the base of trees that look perfectly healthy as well.
Mica Caps have gills that are attached (adnate) to the stem. The gills are dark brown to black and the spore print is black. The top of the brown caps are coated with salt-like granules resembling mica, hence the name. They grow larger than inky caps in spring, summer, fall and sometimes winter in milder climates.
One unique aspect of mica cap mushrooms is their tendency to self-digest as they age. As the cap of the mushroom matures, it begins to liquefy and turn black, a process known as autodigestion. This process can occur rapidly. Some mica cap mushrooms can be fully digested within a few hours of emerging from the ground. This "inky" goo can be mixed with water and used to draw pictures or write poetry about mushrooms.
They have a delicate texture and a mild, nutty flavor that makes them a popular ingredient in soups, stews, and sautés. Two cautions should be heeded. Never eat a wild mushroom unless you are 100% sure that it is safe. Like Shaggy Manes, the Mica Cap mushroom contains a chemical known as Coprine. When mixed with alcohol, Coprine can cause side effects including facial flushing, nausea, vomiting, malaise, palpitations, excessive salivation, headache and tingling in your limbs. Avoid the Chardonnay if you're consuming Mica Caps.
In addition to their culinary uses, mica cap mushrooms also have potential medicinal properties. Studies have shown that compounds found in mica cap mushrooms may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, making them a potential treatment for a range of health conditions. More research is needed.
In addition to their culinary uses, mica cap mushrooms also have potential medicinal properties. Studies have shown that compounds found in mica cap mushrooms may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, making them a potential treatment for a range of health conditions. More research is needed.
The False Turkey Tail Mushroom
Stereum ostrea
The False Turkey Tail (Stereum ostrea) mushroom is a saprophytic fungi commonly found growing on dead or dying trees, especially hardwood trees. They can live on over 70 different genera of hardwood trees and several conifers in the United States. They are a fan-shaped bracket fungi that resemble the tails of turkeys, hence their name. False Turkey Tail mushrooms can be found all over the world, but they are particularly common in North America.
These mushrooms are thin and fan shaped with a tough, leathery texture. The main distinctive difference in appearance between true Turkey Tails and False Turkey Tails is the underside. The true Turkey Tail has a white fertile surface while the false Turkey Tail has a parchment colored underside.
While False Turkey Tail mushrooms are not poisonous, they are not typically consumed because of their tough texture and bitter taste.
False Turkey Tails are not as well studied and don't seem to have the same medicinal compounds that True Turkey Tails do. One study shows that water and ethanol extracts may have some anti-bacterial and antifungal qualities. You can read that study here: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3763174/
False Turkey-tail mushrooms are an important component of forest ecosystems because they help break down dead trees and recycle nutrients back into the soil. They also provide food and shelter for a wide variety of insects and other animals.
While False Turkey Tail mushrooms are not poisonous, they are not typically consumed because of their tough texture and bitter taste.
False Turkey Tails are not as well studied and don't seem to have the same medicinal compounds that True Turkey Tails do. One study shows that water and ethanol extracts may have some anti-bacterial and antifungal qualities. You can read that study here: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3763174/
False Turkey-tail mushrooms are an important component of forest ecosystems because they help break down dead trees and recycle nutrients back into the soil. They also provide food and shelter for a wide variety of insects and other animals.
The Column Stinkhorn
Clathrus columnatus
This week's Fungus Among Us was submitted by one of our Friends of Fungus that was visiting South Carolina. When we received the pictures, identification was not obvious like many other mushrooms. Some of the pictures resemble a small Puffball or Amanita mushroom but the picture that looks like a soft boiled egg cracked open didn't add up.
Clathrus columnatus
This week's Fungus Among Us was submitted by one of our Friends of Fungus that was visiting South Carolina. When we received the pictures, identification was not obvious like many other mushrooms. Some of the pictures resemble a small Puffball or Amanita mushroom but the picture that looks like a soft boiled egg cracked open didn't add up.
After we got a couple more details, like the fact that it had a foul odor, it became clear that this was a Column Stinkhorn (Clathrus columnatus) mushroom. Stinkhorns have evolved to emit odors that range from manure to rotting flesh. This scent draws flies which will land on the mushroom, get covered in spores and then carry those spores off to a new area. This is similar to pollinators being attracted to flowers, except stinkhorns don't smell like flowers. They are interesting and strange looking mushrooms though. Below is a mature Column Stinkhorn.
Like other Stinkhorns, the mushroom emerges from an egg that has long strings on the bottom that resemble roots. The mushroom is covered in Stinkhorn slime that emits the foul odor and sticks the spores to insects.
If you're interested in learning more about mushrooms, stop in and see us at
The Necessary Mercantile
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The Lumpy Bracket Trametes gibbosa At first glance, you might assume that this is a Mossy Maze mushroom if you spotted it in the forest. After a closer examination you would find that it isn't. An older specimen can gain a green tint due to algal growth but this mushroom is actually white. The Lumpy Bracket is a polypore. It is a saprophyte and found on decaying hardwood trees with a preference for Beech trees. Some of the main identifying characteristics are the bumpy hump where the mushroom is attached to the wood, the pores on the reproductive surface, the cream-white spore print, and its crusty hard flesh. Medical studies have found that extracts of Trametes gibbosa may have anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory and antiviral effects. These pretty little brackets can be found in our region right now and all year as they are a perennial fungus. If you would like to see one and some other mushrooms too, stop by and see us at: The Necessary Mercantile Thursday-Saturday 10-2 |
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Stinking Orange Oyster Phyllotopsis nidulans Phyllotopsis nidulans is also called the Stinking Orange Oyster, Mock Oyster or Orange Oyster mushroom. It can be found in our region at this time of year; autumn to late winter. It is saprophytic and you will find them growing in clusters on decaying hardwoods and conifers alike. Although it looks like an Oyster mushroom, it is not. The cap is orange, which can fade to a yellow orange as it ages. The cap surface is hairy. The reproductive surface is gills. The spore print is light pink. Often there is no stem and if there is, it is usually not well formed. One of the most notorious identifying features of this mushroom besides its lovely orange color is it's odor. The aroma is described as rotten eggs, skunk or skunk cabbage, hence the common name of Stinking Orange Oyster. As it ages, the odor may lessen. It is not listed as toxic. However, it is listed as inedible and foul-tasting. With an odor like a skunk, it's not hard to imagine why. 
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Mossy Maze Mushrooms
Cerrena unicolor Jack brought us this pretty cluster of Mossy Maze mushrooms this week. It is a polypore fungus, therefore the reproductive surface is pores. This fungus is common in North and Central America, Europe and Asia. The mushrooms resemble the common Turkey Tail mushroom (Trametes versicolor) but the pores are much coarser in texture. The underside is usually a smoky gray color unlike the Turkey Tails' smooth creamy white reproductive surface. This mushroom has a "mossy" green coating on the top which is probably why the common name was created. This is actually a misnomer because moss very rarely occurs on top of this fungus. It is actually algae. Is anybody else thinking of a lichen in the making? This mushroom is saprophytic, so you will always find it growing on decaying wood. Hardwood species are its preferred diet. The mushroom is not toxic but it is tough and corky in texture leading field guides to list it as inedible. If you're interested in getting a closer look at some Mossy Maze mushrooms, please stop in and see us at The Necessary Mercantile 3816 Churchville Avenue Churchville Thursday-Saturday 10-2pm |
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Medicine of Mushrooms
Any lover of edible mushrooms has heard the term, "medicinal mushrooms". You may have also heard the term, "functional mushrooms". The latter is often used to avoid the US Food and Drug Administration from prosecuting or sending a warning letter regarding claims that mushrooms contain medicinal qualities despite overwhelming scientific evidence to the contrary. Even studies that try to negate the power of fungi admit that there are "secondary metabolites" that may contain medicinal qualities. The FDA does not regulate "supplements" unless they make a claim of diagnosing, treating, mitigating or curing diseases. They have the power to confiscate products, criminally prosecute and fine. The FDA definition of a drug is: * A substance (other than food) intended to affect the structure or any function of the body. * Biological products are included within this definition and are generally covered by the same laws and regulations, but differences exist regarding their manufacturing processes (chemical process versus biological process) In many Asian cultures, mushrooms have been and continue to be used as medicine. For centuries, humans have been harnessing the "medicinal" power of fungi to prevent and treat many diseases. Here in the United States, we can thank fungi for many of our conventional medicines. The world population would surely be far lower if Alexander Fleming had not discovered Penicillium rubens was such a powerful antibacterial in 1928. Many of us may not be here right now if our elders or ourselves hadn't had access to Penicillin. |
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Cholesterol lowering statins are from Pleurotis (Oyster) mushrooms. Cyclosporine, a drug that lowers our immune response allowing organ transplants comes from Tolypocladium inflatum.
If we move beyond FDA approved pharmaceuticals, we find that many mushrooms contain chemicals that may benefit the human condition by preventing inflammation, preventing and slowing cancer growth, preventing dementia, and helping with a host of other ailments. The three main components, although there are many, are called polysaccharides, triterpenes and beta-glucans. These claims of medicinal properties are supported by many scientific studies in well respected medical journals. You can find these studies, for free, with a quick search of the term, "medicinal mushrooms" on https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
Some of these mushrooms that provide "medicinal" benefits are not palatable because they're tough and I usually compare them to chewing on shoe leather. Two major examples include Reishi (Ganoderma spp.) and Turkey Tails (Trametes versicolor). Another issue is that our digestive enzymes are unable to make the beneficial components available to our bodies. They often need to be extracted with water and/or alcohol first. The process is not hard and we actually have a free information sheet describing the process available at The Necessary Mercantile for the taking. We also stock both Turkey Tail and Reishi mushrooms.
Thankfully, there are also a variety of health bestowing mushrooms that are not only edible but incredibly delicious and culinarily versatile. Oyster mushrooms come in many colors, shapes and sizes.
They do NOT taste like oysters and they do NOT have an oyster consistency. The name comes from the similarity that one variety has in appearance to the mollusk...if you have a vivid imagination.
If we move beyond FDA approved pharmaceuticals, we find that many mushrooms contain chemicals that may benefit the human condition by preventing inflammation, preventing and slowing cancer growth, preventing dementia, and helping with a host of other ailments. The three main components, although there are many, are called polysaccharides, triterpenes and beta-glucans. These claims of medicinal properties are supported by many scientific studies in well respected medical journals. You can find these studies, for free, with a quick search of the term, "medicinal mushrooms" on https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
Some of these mushrooms that provide "medicinal" benefits are not palatable because they're tough and I usually compare them to chewing on shoe leather. Two major examples include Reishi (Ganoderma spp.) and Turkey Tails (Trametes versicolor). Another issue is that our digestive enzymes are unable to make the beneficial components available to our bodies. They often need to be extracted with water and/or alcohol first. The process is not hard and we actually have a free information sheet describing the process available at The Necessary Mercantile for the taking. We also stock both Turkey Tail and Reishi mushrooms.
Thankfully, there are also a variety of health bestowing mushrooms that are not only edible but incredibly delicious and culinarily versatile. Oyster mushrooms come in many colors, shapes and sizes.
They do NOT taste like oysters and they do NOT have an oyster consistency. The name comes from the similarity that one variety has in appearance to the mollusk...if you have a vivid imagination.
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Oyster mushrooms are native to our region and these are the mushrooms that contain Lovastatin. Research has also shown that they have anti-tumor properties. This is one of my favorite mushrooms to cook and eat.
Hen of the Woods (Grifola frondosa), which is native to our area has been found to contain components that stimulate the immune system, have anti-cancer properties and regulate blood sugar.
These mushrooms are often called Maitake.
Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceous), native to our region may protect against dementia, reduce anxiety and depression, prevent inflammation and boost the immune system.
Shiitake (Lentinus edodes) may boost whites cell production to fight off pathogenic microbes. They also have been shown to contain anti-inflammatory components and may protect against cell damage.
Over and above the many "medicinal" properties, mushrooms are a nutritional powerhouse and contain many antioxidants. Add some variety to your life and explore the many fungal offerings available.
When someone says that they "don't like mushrooms", my first reaction is that there are so many varieties with different textures, different aromas, different shapes and different flavors, not to mention a virtually infinite amount of ways to cook them, that they haven't been exposed to all the fungal kingdom has to offer. White button mushrooms from a can are not exactly the best ambassadors for fungi.
If you're interested in trying many of these mushrooms, we usually carry them at The Necessary Mercantile. Just give a call to confirm that we have them in stock, (540) 712-7996.
We can also help with cooking suggestions.
Hen of the Woods (Grifola frondosa), which is native to our area has been found to contain components that stimulate the immune system, have anti-cancer properties and regulate blood sugar.
These mushrooms are often called Maitake.
Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceous), native to our region may protect against dementia, reduce anxiety and depression, prevent inflammation and boost the immune system.
Shiitake (Lentinus edodes) may boost whites cell production to fight off pathogenic microbes. They also have been shown to contain anti-inflammatory components and may protect against cell damage.
Over and above the many "medicinal" properties, mushrooms are a nutritional powerhouse and contain many antioxidants. Add some variety to your life and explore the many fungal offerings available.
When someone says that they "don't like mushrooms", my first reaction is that there are so many varieties with different textures, different aromas, different shapes and different flavors, not to mention a virtually infinite amount of ways to cook them, that they haven't been exposed to all the fungal kingdom has to offer. White button mushrooms from a can are not exactly the best ambassadors for fungi.
If you're interested in trying many of these mushrooms, we usually carry them at The Necessary Mercantile. Just give a call to confirm that we have them in stock, (540) 712-7996.
We can also help with cooking suggestions.
If you're interested in learning to grow and forage for these mushrooms, we still have seats available in our upcoming mushroom classes on Tuesday, February 27th or Sunday, March 5th. You can sign up for the class here: https://enchantednaturetours.com/mushroom-class
†This article is not meant to diagnose, treat, mitigate or cure any diseases.†
Seriously, if you have a medical condition, seek proper medical attention and advice.
†This article is not meant to diagnose, treat, mitigate or cure any diseases.†
Seriously, if you have a medical condition, seek proper medical attention and advice.
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Velvet Foot Mushroom
Flamulina velutipes Greetings Friends of Fungus. We hope that you've found some time to spend observing the wonders of winter. One mushroom that you may find in our region at this time of year is the Velvet Foot mushroom. It has a sticky, rubbery brown cap that can be tinged orange, reddish or yellowish. The reproductive surface is gills. This mushroom grows from hardwood species. The white Enoki (aka Enokitake) mushrooms that you sometimes find at grocery store are actually a cultivated variety of this mushroom. While Velvet Foot mushrooms are edible, we advise extreme caution in being 100% sure of your identification. The lookalike for this mushroom is Galerina marginata whose common name is The Deadly Galerina! I think the name is explicit enough to explain our caution. The Velvet Foot has a white spore print while the Deadly Gallerina has a brown spore print. Another defining characteristic is that Gallerina marginata has a ring (called annulus in mycologist vernacular) while Flammulina velutipes does not. If you are enjoying our weekly mushroom postings, please stop by The Necessary Mercantile and let us know. We have a selection of field guides, maps, mycology books, mushroom knives and lots of mushrooms to see and touch. We still have a few logs left too if you would like to grow your own mushrooms. |
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Scarlet Elf Cup
Sarcoscypha austriaca Hello Friends of Fungus. This week we're going to look at the Scarlet Elf Cup mushroom. As you can see, it is easy to spot in the forest because of it's striking red color. It's not hard to imagine where the name came from. Their cheery red color and water holding cup shape could inspire visions of woodland elves using them for some liquid refreshment. Sarcocypha austriaca can be found between December and April in damp deciduous forests. They are saprotrophic, so you will find them growing from downed sticks. They have a preference for moss covered Sycamore, Willow, and Beech wood. As they decompose the wood, they release necessary nutrients for early spring plants. Unlike most other edible mushrooms, Elf Cups are ascomycetes. This means that they actively shoot their spores, which are white, into the air. The more common basidiomycetes simply drop their spores through gills or pores. You might be able to observe the spore "shooting" by gently blowing on them. The moving air may trigger them to shoot up a cloud of spores. |
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Scarlet Elf Cups are edible and lend themselves to interesting presentations by filling them up with meats, herbs or more mushrooms. The stunning red color can brighten up any dish. As always, we caution you to never eat a mushroom unless you are 100% sure that it is safe.
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Witch's Butter
Tremella mesenterica Hello Friends of Fungus. In winter, we see a lot of polypores like Turkey Tails and other bracket fungus as we search the forest. You might be lucky enough find this pretty little jelly fungus. Witch's Butter also called Golden Jelly Fungus or Yellow Trembler is normally found on deadwood. Often you will spot them on hardwood sticks a couple of inches or smaller. You may think that this is a saprobe (decomposer) because it is found on dead wood. It is actually a parasitic fungus that consumes the mycelium of a crust fungus in the genus Peniphora. The fruiting body is smooth and gelatinous. These fungi are common throughout the world. They are edible but not considered "choice" as the flavor is bland. One interesting use of Tremella mesenterica is its presence in cosmetics and creams. One "anit-aging" lotion that I found online charges $75.00 for a 2 ounce jar of cream. Before you start smearing jelly fungus all over your face, realize that there are some doppelganger fungi that can only be distinguished by looking at your specimen with a microscope. With a name like Witch's Butter, you know there is a lot of folklore associated with it. The most common story is that it would be found on door frames of old houses before the days of chemical paints and treatments. If you found it on the door, your house was cursed by a witch. Another story says that a group of witches would steal milk from the family cow and leave bit's of Witch's "Butter" lying about. A different take says that if you throw Witch's Butter into a fire, you can defend yourself against witchcraft. |
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LATTICE PUFFBALL
Calostoma lutescens One of our Friends of Fungus submitted these pics of Lattice Puffballs growing from a very cold and icy George Washington National Forest. There many fungi and lichens in the forest all winter long. If you find any, please send a pic to ChurchvilleStore@gmail.com This mushroom is not kin to giant puffballs (Calvatia gigantea) or stalked puffballs in the genus Podaxis It is in the same family as Castoloma cinnabarina, and shares a strikingly unique fruiting body. The cap isn't a cap. It is a spore casing on top of the stem. These type of fungi used to belong to a group named gasteroid fungi (stomach fungi) because they produce their spores on the interior rather than on an out surface. That term is now obsolete and the class is polyphyletic. These fungi are common in Virginia and the southern Appalachians. They are saprotrophic meaning that they decay dead or dying material. |
The Fly Agaric Mushroom Amanita muscaria This pretty little mushroom is often found depicted in children's books with elves or fairies. Being an Amanita, it has a bulbous base known as a volva. The reproductive surface is gills. The gills are free meaning that they do not connect to the stem. The red cap with white warts is probably the most recognizable characteristic. If you look at the stem (stipe), you will notice a ring that is called an annulus. You can find some cute Amanita Muscaria earrings at The Necessary Mercantile if you're looking for a last minute gift. |
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Cracked Cap Polypore
Phellinus robiniae
If you ask a mushroom forager and a mycologist if there are mushrooms out in the winter, you might get two different answers. A forager is searching for something edible while a mycologist is keeping a lookout for all things fungal. There are most definitely mushrooms revealing themselves during the winter. What you will usually find are perennial polypores if you live in the seasonal climates. The photograph above was taken during an ice storm in the middle of December.
Phellinus robiniae is both parasitic and saprophytic. It is usually found on Locust trees. It can be found on other decaying hardwoods as well. It is a disease for Locust trees but will decay a variety of hardwoods after they have died.
Phellinus robiniae is currently being studied in medicinal applications for hyperglycemia and diabetes. If you would like to see the mushroom in the picture above, stop by The Necessary Mercantile.
Strawberries and Cream Mushrooms
Hydnum peckii
The kingdom of fungi is full of peculiar and beautiful life forms. Hydnum peckii is a perfect example. It is peculiarly beautiful.
Hydnum peckii is also called strawberries and cream, bleeding tooth fungus, devil's tooth, bleeding hynellum, and bile tooth.
The red exudate on top of the mushroom makes it easy identify. When plants and fungi exude liquids like this, the process is called guttation.
These mushrooms may resemble strawberries and cream to some but they do not taste the same. While this fungi is not toxic, it is too bitter to eat. These mushrooms contain medicinal properties. A study revealed that a 70% ethanol extract of Hydnellum peckii had an effective anticoagulant known as Atromentin which is similar to the pharmaceutical Heparin. In vivo, 1mg of the ethanol extract was equivalent to .58 units of Heparin.
The shape can vary wildly. It is cream colored with red liquid exuding from the top. As you can see in the picture above, it has teeth as a fertile surface.
Growing
Humans have been using fungi for food, drink, and medicine for thousands of years. Edible mushrooms can turn into amazing culinary creations. Yeast gives us leavened bread, wine, and beer. Many conventional medicines come from fungi. Think of the thousands of lives that have been saved by Penicillin. Fungi can also be used to improve soil health, clean up toxic chemicals, purify water, replace foam packaging, and new applications are consistently being discovered. Fungi is truly a gift to humanity.
Just like hunter/gatherers evolved into farmers, humans have figured out how to cultivate fungi instead of relying solely on Mother Nature. Small scale mushroom "gardening" is gaining popularity because people are discovering that you don't need a laboratory to achieve success. They can be grown on logs, in bags, on straw, in garden beds, in vegetable gardens and on waste like newspaper. You can grow mushrooms by simply purchasing a pre-inoculated bag and placing it in a bowl of water.
Mushrooms have been gaining popularity worldwide and there is no end in sight. In London, the Kew Gardens' kitchen garden now includes mushrooms. Next year, the Royal Horticultural Society will create a fungi display at the Chelsea flower show for the first time. Books, movies and television shows are following the trend too.
Growing your own has many benefits. You can grow gourmet varieties that are not available at your local grocery. Mushrooms can be grown in unused spaces under the shade of a tree, in a shed, or anywhere indoors. Mushrooms can be grown in your vegetable garden while helping your vegetable plants to thrive.
If you're interested in growing your own mushrooms, The Necessary Mercantile can get you started.
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Shiitake Mushroom Lentinula edodes Shittaké are edible mushrooms native to East Asia and cultivated around the world. Shiitake comes from the Japanese language. Shii is from the Japanese Chinquapin tree, which they may be found growing on, and také is for mushroom. Lentinula edodes grows on hardwood logs and are reasonably easy to cultivate in our region. They have a brown cap with cream colored spots. The reproductive surface is gills. The flavor is rich and earthy. The texture is meaty, making this an extremely versatile ingredient. Try mixing 4 tablespoons of soy sauce with 1/2 tablespoon of sesame oil. Mix the ingredients well. After you sauté your mushrooms, drizzle the mix over them. Shiitake mushrooms have been used in traditional medicine for generations. Lentinula edodes contain polysaccharides like lentinans and other beta-glucans. They also have one of the highest contents of naturally occurring copper. Copper supports healthy blood vessels, bones, and immune system functions. A half cup serving of Shiitake mushrooms provides 72 percent of your recommended daily intake (RDI) of copper. That same serving provides 33 percent of your RDI of selenium. If you're interested in learning how to grow these delicious and nutritious culinary treasures, stop by The Necessary Mercantile and we will give you some pointers. |
The White Button Mushroom
Agaricus bisporus
Many people will be gathering with loved ones next week to celebrate the American holiday of Thanksgiving. Some of you may be looking for mushrooms to broaden the gustatory offerings on the menu. If you are lucky enough to find Oyster mushrooms, Maitake mushrooms, or Shiitake mushrooms, take advantage of your good luck. Most will only find or simply choose the ubiquitous White Button Mushroom.
This mushroom may not have the rock-star status of many other gourmet mushrooms but it is a work-horse ingredient for chefs worldwide. Many people that say they don't like mushrooms have only tried this variety. There are numerous edible mushroom varieties to try and a nearly infinite number of ways to prepare them.
Agaricus bisporus can be found growing naturally in North America. They are native. Cultivated mushrooms are consistent in color and shape. White Button mushrooms actually turn into Portobello mushrooms when they mature. In the wild, the color can vary not only from where you find the mushroom growing, but by the age of the mushroom. The often deadly Destroying Angel mushroom could be confused as a lookalike.
There is a debate among professional chefs, foragers and amateurs about whether to wash your mushrooms or not. Some will advise to brush off your mushrooms and at most "wipe them" with a damp cloth. As someone that is experienced with food safety, cooking, mushroom foraging, and mushroom cultivation, it is my advice that you should ALWAYS wash your mushrooms and ALWAYS cook them. Some edible mushrooms can you make you quite ill when raw.
Store mushrooms in a breathable package like a paper bag. The plastic wrap that you find covering White Buttons in the grocery is actually perforated. Mushrooms must have air exchange or they will quickly rot.
Wash your mushrooms just before using them. Wet mushrooms will rot. Mushrooms make a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal.
The Artist's Conk
Ganoderma applanatum
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If you find time for a walk in a forest, you may find a Ganoderma applanatum, commonly known as The Artist's Conk growing on a tree in almost any state across the US and Canada. These mushrooms grow through all seasons, so you may find one with snow on top of it. Artist's Conk gets it's name, because one can etch designs into the underside. The underside has pores and is white. |
These mushrooms can grow quite large and colors on top are extremely variable. The main lookalike for Ganoderma applanatum is the Red Belted Polypore which is easily distinguished by the red "belt" along the outer edge.
Artist's Conk has been used medicinally in China for thousands of years. It is too tough to eat, but is often cut up and steeped to make a tea. It can also be powdered and added to a smoothie.
Artist's conk is high in antioxidants. It is also being studied for cancer prevention and treatment.
Artist's conk contains many beneficial compounds. It contains beta-glucan polysaccharides which work to improve immune function. They also contain triterpenes which are know to support digestive function, hepatic function, aid in the assimilation of nutrients, and aid in the elimination of waste in the body. There are also many sterols and polypheolic compounds that likely add to its medicinal properties. If you're interested in learning more, check out research on the
National Institute of Health.
If you would like to see some Artist's Conk mushrooms, stop by the Necessary Mercantile. We have some on display.
Artist's Conk has been used medicinally in China for thousands of years. It is too tough to eat, but is often cut up and steeped to make a tea. It can also be powdered and added to a smoothie.
Artist's conk is high in antioxidants. It is also being studied for cancer prevention and treatment.
Artist's conk contains many beneficial compounds. It contains beta-glucan polysaccharides which work to improve immune function. They also contain triterpenes which are know to support digestive function, hepatic function, aid in the assimilation of nutrients, and aid in the elimination of waste in the body. There are also many sterols and polypheolic compounds that likely add to its medicinal properties. If you're interested in learning more, check out research on the
National Institute of Health.
If you would like to see some Artist's Conk mushrooms, stop by the Necessary Mercantile. We have some on display.
The Iceman Fungus
Fomes fomentarius
Fomes fomentarius is commonly known as the hoof fungus because of its resemblance to a horse's hoof. It is also known as a tinder conk. This name comes from it's ability to smolder for days at a time. Before matches and lighters were invented, starting a fire involved a lot of effort. This fungus could be carried as a glowing ember. With just a few strong blows, one could get a fire started.
This mushroom is a bit of a celebrity in the fungal world for another reason. In 1991, hikers in the Alps along the border of Austria and Italy made an accidental yet amazing discovery. They found Ötzi, a glacier mummy preserved by the ice. This mummy is older than the pyramids and Stonehenge. He is over 5,300 years old and he carried two pieces of Fomes fomentarius on rawhide. It is believed that he used the fungus medicinally for its antibiotic and styptic qualities. If you are interested in seeing some Iceman Fungus, stop by the Necessary Mercantile. We have some on display!
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Left: A replica of Otzi
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The Fungus That Eats Insects
Ophiocordyceps unilateralis
Halloween is just a few days away and this is the perfect time to learn about Ophiocordyceps unilateralis. It was once thought that this fungus only existed in tropical regions. In 2009, a species of this fungus was found in the United States. Ophiocordyceps infects ants and then takes control of their bodies. This fungal behavior is what gives it the name "zombie fungus". Here's how it works. A microscopic spore lands on the ant's cuticle and fuses itself to the ant. It then uses a massive amount of pressure to get itself through the ants exoskeleton. The pressure the fungus produces is equal to the amount of pressure in the tire of a 747 jet. Once the spore makes its way into an ant's bloodstream, it begins to replicate itself. As these spores reproduce, they fuse together to form a mycelium in the ant. The fungus infiltrates the hollow spaces between the muscles and penetrates the muscles themselves. It is debated whether the fungus actually penetrates the brain or exudes chemicals that control it. Either way, the fungus directs the host to leave the colony. Other workers would obviously notice their coworkers odd behavior, kill it and drag it to a graveyard away from the colony's home base. The fungus then directs the ant up a tree to bite down on the vein of a leaf. This seems to reliably bee at a specific height every time. At this point, the fungus kills the ant and the actual mushroom forms on the back of the ant's head. The mushroom then rains spores on the other ants below and the process begins again.
Cordyceps are being studied for many uses including: free radical scavenging, antisenescence, anti-inflammatory, and as an antiartherosclerotic. Medical research is also studying its effects on the nervous system, glucose metabolism, the respiratory, hepatic, cardiovascular, and immune systems, immunologic disease, cancer and diseases of the kidneys.
The American Cauliflower Mushroom
Sparassis americana
This mushroom looks like somebody dumped a pot of egg noodles in the forest. The American Cauliflower mushroom is white to a light cream color. It is saprotrophic and found at the base dying or decaying conifers. They have a white spore print. Like Hen of the Woods, you only find them at the base of the tree. You won't find them growing from the trunk.
These mushrooms can grow to over 10 pounds. Cauliflower mushrooms are considered a choice edible. If you are lucky enough to find one and decide to harvest it, always cut it at the base. Do not pull it. This fungal fruit will continue to produce for years, so mark your GPS and your calendar if you find one.
The Sickener Mushroom
Russula emetica
Both the common and binomial names of this fungal fruit are clues that you don't want to eat it. If you know what an emetic does, you will know what would happen to someone that foolishly eats this mushroom. Russula emetica is common in coniferous forests. They occur throughout Britain, Ireland mainland Europe, North America, as well as in northern Africa and some Asian countries. The white stems and gills contrasting with the red caps make them extremely easy to spot and identify. The reproductive surface is gills and the spore print is white to light cream.
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They are mycorrhizal and team up with Spruce and Pine trees.
The red caps will begin as scarlet red and convex. As they mature, the cap will invert into a concave shape the the red will begin to fade. |
Shaggy Mane Mushroom
Coprinus comatus
This easily identified mushroom is commonly called the Shaggy Mane, Shaggy Inkcap, or Lawyer's Wig mushroom. It grows on soil but is saprobic because it gets its food from decaying organic material.
The Shaggy Mane was first described by Danish naturalist Otto Friedrich Müller in 1780 as Agaricus comatus. Its current binomial name, Coprinus comatus was given by Christian Hendrick Persoon in 1797.
The "shaggy" cap that initially covers most of the stem is the first identifiable feature to look for. The species name, comatus is derived from the Latin word for "hairy" or "shaggy".
When cut in half, Shaggy Manes have a hollow stem with a string in the middle of it. You will also notice that it has a bulbous stem base.
Shaggy Manes are one of the approximately 350 species known as Inky Caps. If you let this mushroom rot in a bowl, the resulting black "ink" can be thinned with water and used for writing or drawing. The ink has a bit of a foul odor until it dries.
This mushroom is edible but there are some toxic fungi that look similar, so always be 100% sure before you eat any mushroom. Be advised that this mushroom contains a chemical known as coprine. When mixed with alcohol it will cause some extremely unpleasant side effects. This phenomenon is the reason for one of its other common names, Tippler's Bane. Symptoms of coprine poisoning include facial reddening, malaise, tingling in the limbs, headaches, excessive salivation, agitation, palpitations, nausea, and vomiting.
Shaggy Manes are one of the approximately 350 species known as Inky Caps. If you let this mushroom rot in a bowl, the resulting black "ink" can be thinned with water and used for writing or drawing. The ink has a bit of a foul odor until it dries.
This mushroom is edible but there are some toxic fungi that look similar, so always be 100% sure before you eat any mushroom. Be advised that this mushroom contains a chemical known as coprine. When mixed with alcohol it will cause some extremely unpleasant side effects. This phenomenon is the reason for one of its other common names, Tippler's Bane. Symptoms of coprine poisoning include facial reddening, malaise, tingling in the limbs, headaches, excessive salivation, agitation, palpitations, nausea, and vomiting.
Hen of the Woods Mushroom
Greetings Friends of Fungus. Last week, we introduced the Chicken of the Woods mushroom. This week, Hen of the Woods (Grifola frondosa) is our featured fungus. This mushroom is also called Maitake (Dancing Mushroom), Sheep's Head, and King of the Mushrooms. In China, it is known as "hui-shu-hua" which means grey tree flower.
Grifola frondosa is a polypore fungus that grows at the base of old hardwood trees, generally Oak and Maple. It is native to North America, parts of Asia, and Europe.
The reproductive surface (underside) is pores. This mushroom is always found growing on wood.
Grifola Frondosa has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to enhance immunity, control diabetes, as an anti-hypertensive, as an anti-viral, to control non-fatty liver disease, as an anti-tumor, and many other applications. Medical research is ongoing.
This is a choice edible. There are some similar mushrooms. One called Berkley's Polypore is sometimes mistaken for Hen of the Woods. If you're interested in trying Hen of the Woods, we have them for sale at The Necessary Mercantile in Churchville.
Cooking Suggestion
*Wash your Hen of the Woods thoroughly just before cooking.
Pat them dry.
*In a skillet/frying pan, melt some butter and olive oil, some bacon drippings, or use your favorite cooking oil.
*Place the whole clump of Hen of the Woods into the skillet and then place a cast iron skillet on top of the mushrooms to press them down. If you don't have a heavy skillet, a pan with a rock in it will work.
*Sear the mushroom for about 4 minutes without disturbing it.
*Flip the mushroom and sear for another 4 minutes.
*Remove it from the heat and season it with salt and pepper to taste. At this point, you could also use steak sauce, worcestershire sauce, barbecue sauce, or any other condiment that you like. The result is a delicious and nutritious steak like fare that can be paired with seasonal vegetables for an exquisite culinary experience.
*Wash your Hen of the Woods thoroughly just before cooking.
Pat them dry.
*In a skillet/frying pan, melt some butter and olive oil, some bacon drippings, or use your favorite cooking oil.
*Place the whole clump of Hen of the Woods into the skillet and then place a cast iron skillet on top of the mushrooms to press them down. If you don't have a heavy skillet, a pan with a rock in it will work.
*Sear the mushroom for about 4 minutes without disturbing it.
*Flip the mushroom and sear for another 4 minutes.
*Remove it from the heat and season it with salt and pepper to taste. At this point, you could also use steak sauce, worcestershire sauce, barbecue sauce, or any other condiment that you like. The result is a delicious and nutritious steak like fare that can be paired with seasonal vegetables for an exquisite culinary experience.
Chicken of the Woods Mushroom
Howdy-do Friends of Fungus. The fungus of the week is Chicken of the Woods (Laetiporus sulphureus). These mushrooms are also commonly called crab of the woods, sulphur shelf, and sulphur polypore.
It is a bracket fungus that ranges in color from bright orange to sulphur yellow. It is found in North America and Europe. The reproductive surface (underside) is pores. This mushroom is always found growing on wood.
Laetiporus sulphureus was first described as Boletus sulphureus in 1789 by French mycologist Pierre Bulliard. It was given its current name in 1920 by American mycologist William Murrill. Pharmacological research supports traditional medicinal claims/uses and has revealed new possibilities. Cytotoxic, anticancer, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, and antioxidant effects have been observed.
This is a choice edible but as always, it is up to know what you're eating. There are some similar mushrooms that can cause terrible gastrointestinal problems. Chicken of the Woods must be cooked. If you're interested in trying Chicken of the Woods, we have some for sale at The Necessary Mercantile in Churchville this weekend. If you can't make it in on Thursday, there may still be some left on Saturday from 10-2:00.
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Crown Tipped Coral Mushroom Hello Friends of Fungus. We hope that you've had some time to spend mushroom hunting. With the recent rain and temperature fluctuations, fungal fruits of various varieties have been popping up. The fungus among us this week is the Crown Tipped Coral Mushroom (Artomyces pyxidatus (formerly Clavicorona pyxidata). These beautiful mushrooms get their name from the resemblance to the invertebrate creatures under the sea. There are many coral mushroom varieties. Some are edible and some are toxic. This one happens to be edible and quite delicious. It can make a stunning presentation as a garnish on a special meal. Identification begins with their coral like shape. Crown Tipped Corals always grow on dead and dying hardwood. The color ranges from cream to tan. Looking closely at the tips, you see the crown like protrusions that give this mushroom its name. If you're interested in learning more about mushroom identification, we will be offering a presentation at The Necessary Mercantile in Churchville, VA this Saturday, September 17th at 10:30 am. For more information: Follow us on Facebook. On Saturday, October 1, 2022 at 1:00 pm, we will be meeting at The Necessary Mercantile in Churchville, VA. From there, we will caravan to Braley Pond for an expedition and exploration of all things fungal. A delicious lunch will be provided by White's Wayside. More details coming soon. For more information: Follow us on Facebook. |
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Varnish Shelf Mushroom
Ganoderma tsugae
This stunning mushroom is commonly called the Varnish Shelf or Hemlock Varnish Shelf because of it's shiny surface. It grows almost exclusively on Hemlock trees, whose taxonomic name is Tsuga. The Ganoderma genus includes about 80 species including the often cultivated Ganoderma lucidum.
G. tsugae was first described by American mycologist William Alphonso Murrill in the Bulletin of the Torrey Botanical Club, Vol. 29 in 1902. In Japan, they refer to this mushroom as Reishi. For over 7,000 years the Chinese have been using Reishi in traditional medicine. It is so revered that they call it Lingzhi which translates to, "the mushroom of immortality". This mushroom is not a choice edible but is often used to make tinctures and teas.
A quick search of The National Library of Medicine reveals that these mushrooms and the polysaccharides that they contain are being studied for various medical benefits.
As you can see, the color ranges from a deep burgundy color to a brownish cream color along the edge. The reproductive surface is pores. These pores are normally cream colored and it is a bracket fungus. They are saprobic so they will always be on wood. The spore print is brown.
If you would like to see this mushroom in person come see us at The Necessary Mercantile. We offer a variety of teas made with Reishi mushrooms and also sell dried Reishi so that you can make your own tinctures and teas.
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Lichens
Greetings Friends of Fungus. The fungus of the week is something a little out of the ordinary. We are likin' lichens lately. Lichens are actually two or more different organisms. They are a fungus that has teamed up with algae and/or cyanobacteria. Fungus provides structure and protection from the elements for the photosynthesis performing partners. The cyanobacteria/algae shares some of the food it produces with the fungus. Lichens are essentially there own self-contained symbiotic ecosystem. We cannot begin to cover all of the interesting information about lichens in this post. You're in luck though! Friends of Fungus will be teaming up with Enchanted Nature Tours to offer an informative presentation and guided hike in the George Washington National Forest. On Saturday, October 1, 2022 at 1:00 pm, we will be meeting at The Necessary Mercantile in Churchville, VA. From there, we will caravan to Braley Pond for an expedition and exploration of all things fungal.
A delicious lunch will be provided by White's Wayside.
More details coming soon. For more information: Follow us on Facebook.
Oyster Mushroom
Pleurotus ostreatus
The AMAZING Oyster Mushroom has been found in our region recently. Pleurotus ostreatus mushrooms are amazing because of their many wonderful qualities.
Oysters are delicious and nutritious. The name comes from their resemblance to the mollusk. The flavor does not taste like seafood at all. Pleurotus ostreatus also produces the chemical Lovastatin which is used as a cholesterol-lowering pharmaceutical. A quick search of Pleurotus ostreatus on
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
will reveal that these fungi are being studied for many other medicinal properties as well.
Oyster mushrooms are cream colored and fruit on wood in shelf like clusters. They have gills. While the mushrooms themselves are found growing on wood, the mycelium is found in soil too. In fact, soil is often inoculated with Pleurotus ostreatus to control plant killing nematodes and for mycoremediation. To see an example of mycoremediation, watch the video below.
Oyster mushrooms come in many colors and are relatively easy to cultivate. If you are interested in growing your own, The Necessary Mercantile in Chuchville, VA has ready to grow kits called "Shroom Blooms" for sale.
Photo by Jack Wilson
Lion's Mane
Hericium erinaceus
Lion's Mane mushrooms should be appearing soon here in the Shenandoah Valley. They will be spotted growing on dead and dying hardwood trees (Saprophytic). Unlike most other fungi, Lion's Mane will grow on Black Walnut trees.
They are white and have an unusual shape. They are covered with teeth (sometimes called spines), which look like draped white hairs. There are other similar species in the Hericium genus but there are no lookalikes for the Lion's Mane. When cooked with butter, Lion's Mane tastes similar to lobster or crab. If you're interested in tasting some that have been cultivated, The Necessary Mercantile in Chuchville, VA has dehydrated mushrooms for sale.
Research has demonstrated that Lion's Mane may protect against dementia, reduce mild symptoms of anxiety and depression, and help repair nerve damage. It also has strong anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immune-boosting abilities and been shown to lower the risk of heart disease, cancer, ulcers and diabetes in animals.
GIANT PUFFBALL
Calvatia gigantea
In a previous fungi post, we learned about the Lattice Puffball. This week, we will discuss the more popular and edible Giant Puffball. Calvatia gigantea is a harbinger that autumn is approaching. When the leaves begin to turn, you will find these fungi growing in meadows and along wooded edges.
Giant Puffballs grow from the soil, but are actually saprobic. This means that they are breaking down organic material. They are easily recognized by their smooth white exterior. Often, they appear more like a partially deflated ball than a perfect sphere, but never like an inverted pear.
The interior is white, turning yellow-green with age, and finally brown as it dissolves into trillions of spores. The shape, color, and texture is very similar to buffalo mozzarella cheese.
Calvatia gigantea
In a previous fungi post, we learned about the Lattice Puffball. This week, we will discuss the more popular and edible Giant Puffball. Calvatia gigantea is a harbinger that autumn is approaching. When the leaves begin to turn, you will find these fungi growing in meadows and along wooded edges.
Giant Puffballs grow from the soil, but are actually saprobic. This means that they are breaking down organic material. They are easily recognized by their smooth white exterior. Often, they appear more like a partially deflated ball than a perfect sphere, but never like an inverted pear.
The interior is white, turning yellow-green with age, and finally brown as it dissolves into trillions of spores. The shape, color, and texture is very similar to buffalo mozzarella cheese.
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Jack Among The Jack O'Lanterns
(Omphalotus illudens)
Jack is lying among Jack O'Lantern mushrooms. These pretty orange mushrooms grow on decaying wood (saprophytic). You can see that they are growing out of a stump and rotting roots. The mushrooms growing out of the roots appear to be growing in the soil because the wood is buried. This phenomenon can lead some enthusiasts to mistake Jack Lanterns for delicious Chanterelle mushrooms. If you eat Jack Lanterns you will regret it. They will cause extreme digestive distress. So how do you tell the difference? Chanterelles always grow on soil and Jack Lanterns always grow on wood. Jack Lanterns have gills while Chanterelles have ridges. Chanterelles have a distinctive apricot-like aroma while Jack Lanterns do not. One other interesting characteristic of Ompholotus illudens is that it glows in the dark (bioluminescent). The mushroom on Jack's chest is a Puffball. We will discuss that mushroom in a future post.
(Omphalotus illudens)
Jack is lying among Jack O'Lantern mushrooms. These pretty orange mushrooms grow on decaying wood (saprophytic). You can see that they are growing out of a stump and rotting roots. The mushrooms growing out of the roots appear to be growing in the soil because the wood is buried. This phenomenon can lead some enthusiasts to mistake Jack Lanterns for delicious Chanterelle mushrooms. If you eat Jack Lanterns you will regret it. They will cause extreme digestive distress. So how do you tell the difference? Chanterelles always grow on soil and Jack Lanterns always grow on wood. Jack Lanterns have gills while Chanterelles have ridges. Chanterelles have a distinctive apricot-like aroma while Jack Lanterns do not. One other interesting characteristic of Ompholotus illudens is that it glows in the dark (bioluminescent). The mushroom on Jack's chest is a Puffball. We will discuss that mushroom in a future post.
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Old Man of the Woods Mushroom
(Strobilomyces spp.) The Old Man of the Woods is a wonderfully photogenic mushroom in the Bolete family. It is found on the forest floor (mycorrhizal with Oaks). The cap and the stem are covered in shaggy scales . The reproductive surface is pores. This is an edible mushroom but we do not eat them or tell others to. This tasteless beauty is a treat for your camera only. |
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Chanterelle
(Cantharellus cibarius)
Chanterelle mushrooms are one of the choice edibles that grow wild in our region. They are easy to spot in the forest due to their yellow to orange color. They are mycorrhizal with coniferous trees. They always will be growing on the soil and never found growing out of wood. When you slice or tear them open, the interior is white. They have ridges on the underside of the cap. This is different than the normal pores, teeth, or gills. The ridges look similar to gills, however they are much more rigid. Gills are more fragile and break easily if you brush your finger across them. Another identifier is the fragrance. If you smell a Chanterelle, you will notice a mild apricot-like aroma.
(Cantharellus cibarius)
Chanterelle mushrooms are one of the choice edibles that grow wild in our region. They are easy to spot in the forest due to their yellow to orange color. They are mycorrhizal with coniferous trees. They always will be growing on the soil and never found growing out of wood. When you slice or tear them open, the interior is white. They have ridges on the underside of the cap. This is different than the normal pores, teeth, or gills. The ridges look similar to gills, however they are much more rigid. Gills are more fragile and break easily if you brush your finger across them. Another identifier is the fragrance. If you smell a Chanterelle, you will notice a mild apricot-like aroma.
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Turkey Tails are one of the great medicinal mushrooms and quite common in our woods.
The second pic shows False Turkey Tails (Stereum Ostrea).
They are beautiful and harmless, but not what we are looking for.
You can buy dried, locally harvested Turkey Tails and the Necessary Mercantile.
We’ve also posted suggestions on how to process them into an extract.
Jack’s quick and happy method for extracting Turkey Tails.
I. Add dry or fresh Turkey Tail to your evening libation - Enjoy
II. In the morning, move the Turkey Tail to your morning tea or coffee
The second pic shows False Turkey Tails (Stereum Ostrea).
They are beautiful and harmless, but not what we are looking for.
You can buy dried, locally harvested Turkey Tails and the Necessary Mercantile.
We’ve also posted suggestions on how to process them into an extract.
Jack’s quick and happy method for extracting Turkey Tails.
I. Add dry or fresh Turkey Tail to your evening libation - Enjoy
II. In the morning, move the Turkey Tail to your morning tea or coffee