Fantastic Fungi

Recent weather conditions have been ideal for the growth of fungi. Volunteers have already identified 50 species on the reserve this month.

Particularly impressive is the Parasol mushroom. This species is fairly common in well-drained soils and has a large fruiting body which resembles a parasol. It can be distinguished from the similar looking Shaggy Parasol by the scaly snakeskin-like pattern on its stipe.

The Parasol can be found solitary or in groups. It is most common in pastures but can also be found in woodland. There is currently a stunning fairy ring of this species at the Stone Circle on the reserve. 

The Parasol has white spores which can be seen in this beautiful spore print. 

Thank you to everyone who has helped so far with identifying Foxglove's Fantastic Fungi!