The beauty of fungi often goes unnoticed, yet they are among the remarkable wonders of nature. A recent visit to a nature reserve in Oxfordshire, once a Victorian rubbish dump, revealed a vibrant world of fungi thriving amidst the remnants of the past.
During my excursion, the forest floor was adorned with brightly colored leaves, while droplets of water clung to berries, sparkling like diamonds. Autumn and winter are prime seasons for fungi, and while they may be elusive at first, venturing deeper into the woods reveals a myriad of species.
Identifying these fungi proved challenging, but with the aid of a couple of nature books and the Shroomify app, we managed to recognize several types. Among them were the striking veiled poisonpie, glistening from recent rain; the smoky polypore, characterized by its yellow underside and a distinctive black circle surrounded by a white ring; and the honey mushroom, featuring caps that shimmer in golden-cream hues.
One particular fungus, sporting a brown flaky cap, left us uncertain about its identity, possibly a dusky puffball or shaggy scalycap. Curiously, I later learned that the veiled poisonpie can be toxic yet is consumed in certain regions of Mexico. Additionally, some species of honey mushroom are known for their bioluminescent properties, glowing softly in the dark.
Despite my grandmother”s belief that fungi are a nuisance in her garden, I find them captivating. Often, what appears to be an ordinary, damp tree stump can reveal extraordinary growths of fungi. Their colors can range from vibrant to muted, yet I believe all fungi possess a unique beauty.
As the autumn season progresses, I encourage others to explore their local natural spaces. Who knows what hidden wonders await in the forests and fields?
