Winter's Hidden Gems
When it comes to mushroom enthusiasts, the common belief is that the prime time for mushroom hunting is during the warmer months of summer and fall. However, the world of fungi offers year-round wonders for those keen to explore it. Even now, in the heart of winter, a variety of fascinating mushroom species are thriving.
These winter mushrooms, often overlooked, present a unique opportunity to discover and appreciate the resilience and diversity of fungi during the colder months.
Some of the species listed below can be encountered at any time of the year, but now may be the optimal time for their observation as their vibrant appearance stands out prominently against the faded winter hues.
Schizophyllum commune is one of the most widespread fungi globally, thriving year-round. At first glance, it may seem unremarkable, but it can be quite beautiful, flourishing abundantly on wood, resembling lace or frost patterns. Beneath the cap, there are radial folds resembling gills, each centrally split, giving it the name "Split Gill." These splits serve as an adaptive feature to varying environmental conditions.
Tremella mesenterica, commonly known as witch's butter or yellow brain, is a globally ubiquitous fungus, showcasing its captivating, bright-yellow, jelly-like fruit bodies across diverse landscapes. This adaptable species emerges throughout the year in damp habitats, thriving parasitically on the mycelium of wood-rotting corticioid fungi.
An equally intriguing relative of the previous species is Naematelia aurantia. This species is also widely distributed, primarily in north temperate regions. It is a parasitic fungus that thrives on Stereum hirsutum, often covering the host basidiocarps entirely. Typically located on dead, attached, or recently fallen branches of broadleaf trees, it closely follows its host's distribution.
Auricularia auricula-judae , commonly known as jelly ear, is a fungus recognized for its distinctive ear-like shape. Found on decaying wood, especially elder trees, it features a unique gelatinous texture. Apart from its interesting appearance, the fungus has a fascinating cultural history.
Exidia glandulosa, commonly known as warty jelly fungus or black witches' butter, recognized for its dark brown to black, irregularly shaped fruiting bodies that resemble small, warty cushions. This fungus often appears on dead wood, especially on branches of deciduous trees. While not edible, Exidia glandulosa holds ecological significance as it contributes to the decomposition of organic matter in forest ecosystems.
Phyllotopsis nidulans, commonly known as the mock oyster, presents a fascinating contradiction. Its velvety or hairy cap, often displaying vibrant colors ranging from orange to salmon-pink, is accompanied by an unexpected aroma reminiscent of rotting cabbage or decaying eggs.
Dacrymyces stillatus, commonly referred to as jelly spot fungus, is recognized for its small, jelly-like fruiting bodies that appear as tiny spots on decaying wood, especially coniferous logs and branches. These fruiting bodies can range in color from yellow to orange, giving them a distinctive and eye-catching appearance. D. stillatus is often encountered in cool, damp environments. While it might not be a mushroom in the traditional sense, this fungus serves an ecological role by aiding in the decomposition of wood.
The following two intriguing species share the common name cramp balls. At first glance, they may appear quite similar – dark spheres on wood. However, upon closer inspection, one can observe that Annulohypoxylon thouarsianum has a coarser and rougher surface. An interesting distinction of Daldinia concentrica is its internal structure, aligning with its name: the flesh of the fruiting body is organized in concentric layers, resembling the annual rings of a tree.
Sarcoscypha coccinea, or scarlet elf cup, captivates with its vivid red or orange cup-shaped fruiting bodies, creating a stunning spectacle in damp woodlands during late winter and early spring. Found on decaying wood, particularly fallen branches, this fungus adds a vibrant touch to the forest floor.
The most wintery mushroom you can encounter in the forest is undoubtedly Exidiopsis effusa. Hair ice is a fascinating natural phenomenon where fine, silky hairs of ice form on dead wood. Strictly speaking, this "hairs" themselves are not part of the mushroom's body but are caused by fungi that influence the formation of ice crystals.
Auriscalpium vulgare, or earpick fungus, is intriguing for several reasons. Firstly, its appearance is quite amusing: the stem of this mushroom is positioned not in the center but on the side of the cap, and the lower surface is toothed. Secondly, as for its substrate, these fungi prefer pinecones. Even if it seems that the mushroom is growing from the soil, it might turn out that the pinecone was simply buried in the ground.
The appearance of Punctularia atropurpurascens can be confusing and may even seem menacing to some. The red droplets on the fluffy surface of the fungus are aqueous exudate containing the metabolic products of the mushroom.
For those in the Southern Hemisphere, especially in Australia, the following few species are currently in season, making them particularly relevant.
Cyptotrama asprata, or scruffy scalycap, looks bright and attractive in its mature stage, but you'll be especially lucky if you encounter the young fruiting body, as it appears exceptionally cute and charming.
Slightly reminiscent in its "hairstyle" of the previous species, but far more sinister, Boletellus emodensis, commonly known as shaggy cap. This fungus has a favorite tree – eucalyptus, where it forms mycorrhizal associations.
Now is the best time to find such an intriguing mushroom as Phallus multicolor. Its fruiting bodies, like those of other stinkhorns, are very short-lived because they are quickly consumed by insects attracted to the strong odor. Therefore, consider yourself lucky if you find this mushroom in its best form, covered by a veil.
Another actively fruiting mushroom now, Colus pusillus, despite its highly original appearance, is actually a relative of the previous one and also belongs to the stinkhorns, with the corresponding common name craypot stinkhorn or basket stinkhorn.
Discover the diverse and captivating species thriving year-round! Happy hunting!