Mushrooms are a fascinating and diverse class of fungi. Although often overlooked, they can be found growing in almost any environment on Earth. Not only do they provide us with nutrition but they also have many strange characteristics that make them worth exploring further. In this article, you’ll discover seven weird mushrooms that will surely pique your curiosity!
Have you ever heard about the dead man’s fingers mushroom? This strange-looking fungus has an apt name – its long black stems resemble human digits rising from the forest floor. Or how about the artist conk mushroom? It looks like a regular piece of wood until you cut into it and find a colorful surprise inside! And these two peculiarities are just the beginning. Read on to learn more about some truly unusual mushrooms!
Do you want to know what other oddities lurk beneath logs and trees? Keep reading for seven remarkable mushrooms that may surprise even experienced mycologists (mushroom experts). From glowing bioluminescent species to massive ones weighing hundreds of pounds, prepare yourself for a wild ride through the world of fungi!
Dragon’s Tooth Mushroom
Did you know that there are over 3,000 types of mushrooms? One unique mushroom is the dragon’s tooth mushroom. This peculiar fungus can be found all over the world – even in your backyard!
The oddest thing about this species is its shape and size. Its scientific name, Hydnellum peckii, aptly describes it as ‘pointed teeth’ due to its jagged surface pattern with pointed ridges resembling shark-like dentition. They grow on dead wood or rotting tree stumps and range from 2–7 cm tall. When sliced open, they have bright yellowish flesh which darkens once exposed to air for a few minutes.
Apart from their physical characteristics, one fascinating aspect of these fungi is that they glow in the dark! The bioluminescent properties of H. peckii occur when fresh specimens are bruised or cut open; a reaction caused by an enzyme interaction between oxygen and luciferin, releasing light energy. However, due to their rarity, spectrometers haven’t been able to measure exactly how much luminescence they produce yet.
Dragon’s tooth mushrooms make for interesting conversation pieces among nature enthusiasts but it’s important to remember never to consume them without expert advice since some species may be poisonous if eaten raw or cooked incorrectly. All in all, it’s exciting to find such weird mushrooms growing close by!
Amethyst Deceiver
The second weird mushroom that is worth knowing about is the amethyst deceiver. Not only does this species have an intriguing name, but it also has a unique appearance. Its cap can range from light brown to almost black and its surface becomes sticky when wet. Its gills are pale pink to purple, which gives rise to its descriptive moniker.
This type of fungus tends to grow in groups on decaying logs or stumps, often near coniferous trees like spruce or fir. Though they may not be easy to spot at first glance, their vibrant coloring makes them stand out more than other mushrooms do. Additionally, these mushrooms tend to appear after heavy rainfall periods during springtime.
Amethyst deceivers possess various edible properties, though some people find them too slimy for their taste preferences. Nonetheless, they offer some amazing health benefits such as being high in antioxidants and containing anti-inflammatory compounds. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking for nutritional options that will help boost immunity and protect against chronic diseases.
In short, the amethyst deceiver is an interesting mushroom with many possible uses both culinary and medicinal. Those who take the time to look for it are sure to enjoy all the benefits it provides!
Sheep Polypore
Prepare to be amazed! The sheep polypore looks like something out of a fairy tale, with its brilliant coral-like texture that is truly one of nature’s most unique creations. With four distinct features that will leave you spellbound, this weird mushroom is certainly worth knowing about.
First and foremost, the striking coloration of the sheep polypore stands out from other fungi due to its bright orange hues – an unmistakable sign for any mushroom hunter. Secondly, it has an irregular shape; resembling a fan or even a plate in some cases. Thirdly, the specimen is covered in small pores which are used to release spores when mature. Finally, the underside reveals numerous tiny tubes in place of gills.
The stunning appearance of this odd mushroom isn’t all it offers though – it also contains several medicinal properties as well. Here are just four examples:
- It can boost immune system health;
- Its anti-inflammatory compounds help reduce swelling and pain;
- Its antifungal properties make it useful in treating athlete’s foot; and
- Sheepshead mushrooms contain powerful antioxidants which protect against free radical damage.
These medicinal benefits coupled with its captivating aesthetic make the sheep polypore an incredible find while on your next foray into the woods hunting mushrooms!
White Brain Mushroom
The white brain mushroom is an otherworldly sight in the depths of a forest. With its unique form resembling something out of a sci-fi movie, this species is not one to be overlooked. It boasts a soft and velvety texture that can easily attract any curious wanderer.
This rare fungus’s appearance is certainly its defining feature. Its fleshy exterior wraps around itself like coils of thick cream, while its surface exudes a creamy white hue that almost appears luminescent under the moonlight. The mushroom’s cap is often rounded with undulating ridges that add character to its already captivating look.
Despite being quite striking throughout all four seasons, this fungi does have more than just its aesthetic appeal going for it. There are numerous health benefits associated with consuming these mushrooms such as aiding digestion, reducing anxiety, and improving overall well-being. This makes them increasingly popular among those looking for alternative ways to improve their physical and mental health without having to resort to drugs or supplements.
These unusual mushrooms may be hard to come by but they make up for it with their many healing properties and eye-catching beauty – making them well worth tracking down if you ever get the chance!
Blusher Mushroom
The blusher mushroom is an enigmatic fungus, cloaked in mystery and secrets. Its colorful cap resembles a blush of pinkish-brown hues that make it stand out amongst the other fungi on the forest floor. It’s no wonder why this curious specimen has been a source of fascination for generations.
This species of mushroom can be found all over Europe, as well as parts of North America and Australia. They are usually seen growing in small clusters near deciduous trees like oak or birch, with some reports suggesting they prefer more shady areas to thrive. The mushrooms have a rather unique smell – described by many as earthy but slightly sweet – that helps distinguish them from similar varieties.
Blusher mushrooms boast several different culinary uses, ranging from being added to soups and stews to being dried and used as a seasoning for dishes such as risotto or pasta sauces. Their firm texture makes them ideal for grilling or barbecuing too; however, care must be taken when preparing them due to their propensity for carrying toxins if not cooked properly.
Given its prevalence around the world and versatile flavor profile, it’s clear why the blusher mushroom has become so popular among foodies looking to spice up their meals – even if harvesting these mysterious morsels takes a bit of practice!
Chicken Of The Woods
Frolicking amidst the lushness of nature, the chicken of the woods mushroom is a sight to behold. Like a burst of sunshine in an otherwise dark forest, this yellow-orange fungus looks like its namesake – plump and voluminous. It’s one of those weird mushrooms that will make you stop and take notice!
The first thing you’ll likely recognize about this type of mushroom is its distinct sulfur smell. This scent can help distinguish between edible or poisonous species. The fan-like shape with irregular edges also makes for easy identification. It prefers to grow on dead wood such as oaks and maples, although some have reported finding them growing from living trees too.
This particular fungi have been found all over the world and is grown commercially in various countries including China, Japan, South Korea, and Portugal. They’re especially popular amongst chefs due to their unique flavor profile – they taste like chicken! Once cooked properly they provide a delicious meaty texture that pairs well with sauces such as cream cheese or garlic butter.
Foraging enthusiasts often recommend avoiding picking young specimens as they tend to be tougher than older ones. Furthermore, do your research before harvesting any wild mushrooms; there are many toxic lookalikes out there so caution should always be taken when consuming anything from outdoors! With just a bit of knowledge, anyone can find these wonderful gems without worrying about getting sick afterward.
Dead Man’s Fingers
Dead man’s fingers is an aptly named mushroom species that’s been around for eons. It typically grows in areas with dead trees or stumps, and it has a unique look: finger-like caps connected to cylindrical stems. Surprisingly, this fungus has spread from its original home of Europe across the world only 20% of known occurrences are still within Europe!
This type of mushroom also happens to be quite edible. Its flavor profile is earthy but not overly intense, making it a great addition to soups, salads, and casseroles. Plus, they’re said to contain some beneficial nutrients like antioxidants and polysaccharides. But before you go out collecting these mushrooms yourself, keep reading – there are a few things you should know first.
It’s important to note that a dead man’s fingers can look similar to other poisonous fungi varieties so identification must be done cautiously. To tell if it’s the right kind of mushroom, check for certain traits such as white patches on the stem or larger clusters than one might expect from a wild variety. If any doubt remains after examining the physical characteristics, it’s best to avoid eating them entirely just in case.
TIP: As with all types of mushroom gathering and consumption, always consult an expert when possible! Be sure to ask about local availability and what signs may help distinguish between different mushrooms before heading out into nature for your search party.
Witch’s Butter
Wrapped in a mysterious cloak, witch’s butter is an enigmatic fungus that captivates the imagination. It’s almost as if it stepped right out of a fairy tale. This gelatinous mushroom is found growing on rotting logs and tree stumps throughout North America and Europe, often with other species like turkey tail mushrooms. Witch’s butter has been given many nicknames such as Tremella mesenterica, yellow brain, golden jellyfish, or witches’ cushions.
Despite its strange appearance, witch’s butter isn’t dangerous to consume; however, due to its texture most people wouldn’t want to eat it raw. The best thing to do would be to dry it out before using it for culinary purposes such as making soups or sauces since this will give them more flavor and character. Additionally, you can also add dried pieces of witch’s butter into salads or stir-fries for extra crunchiness!
Witch’s butter can also have medicinal uses too – some studies suggest that consuming this type of mushroom may help reduce inflammation in the body and even protect against certain types of cancer cells. However, further research still needs to be done here before any definitive claims can be made about its health benefits.
It may look odd at first glance but there are plenty of ways to enjoy witch’s butter when used correctly: whether you’re looking for something unique in your cooking repertoire or hoping to get some potential medical advantages from consuming this funky fungus – you won’t be disappointed!
Snow Fungus
Twisting and turning, the snow fungus is a unique mushroom-like no other. With its intricate white tendrils reaching out in all directions, it’s easy to see why this particular fungus has been called ‘the vegetable of immortality’ by some cultures. From its beneficial properties to its fascinating origins, here are five reasons why you should get acquainted with snow fungus:
- Snow fungus contains many nutrients that can help boost immunity and promote healthy skin.
- It has anti-inflammatory qualities which help reduce redness and swelling when applied topically.
- The creamy texture and slightly sweet taste make it an ideal addition to both savory and sweet dishes.
- Traditionally used in Chinese medicine for centuries, snow fungus is said to have healing powers that target respiratory issues as well as inflammations.
- In Japan, it’s believed that consuming snow fungus will make one live longer!
Snow fungus may not be the most common type of mushroom but don’t let that stop you from exploring its benefits – after all, who doesn’t want to reap the rewards of longevity? This strange yet beautiful organism deserves more attention than it gets; so if you’re ever looking to expand your knowledge on edible fungi, consider giving the mysterious snow fungus a try!
Jelly Drops
Jelly Drops are a type of edible mushroom found in the wet tropics of Central and South America. They’re named for their jelly-like texture, which can range from firm to slightly rubbery. The mushrooms have an unusual appearance, with light yellow or ivory caps that may be round or irregularly shaped. They also have volva rings at the base of their stems.
Jelly Drops are most commonly eaten cooked, although some people enjoy eating them raw as well. Their flavor is mild and sweet, making them ideal for adding to salads and stir-fries. When cooked correctly, they retain their shape and texture nicely – so there’s no need to worry about them becoming mushy.
Though these fungi don’t contain any toxins, it’s important to note that they should only be consumed in moderation due to their laxative properties. Additionally, many wild specimens have been known to contain parasites such as nematodes that can cause stomach discomfort if ingested. For this reason, it’s best to purchase cultivated varieties when available or source your mushrooms from reputable local farmers’ markets whenever possible.
Overall, Jelly Drops make a great addition to any dish thanks to their unique flavor and texture. And while you won’t want to overdo it on these odd-looking mushrooms, incorporating them into your meals now and then will certainly add something special!
Conclusion
Mushrooms may not seem like the most interesting topic, but these seven weird mushrooms are truly remarkable. We’ve seen some of nature’s oddities: from brain-like structures to gelatinous drops and even fingers that look downright creepy! Each one is a reminder of the hidden complexity in our natural world; it’s as if each mushroom has its own secret story waiting to be uncovered.
Exploring mushrooms can feel like a journey through an enchanted forest – you never know what strange and mysterious surprises await around the corner. Every discovery is like opening up a little gift box full of wonders, showing us just how amazing and varied our planet can be. It makes us appreciate even more the intricate beauty of nature, which we too often take for granted.
So next time you come across an unusual mushroom, don’t forget to marvel at its uniqueness. Whether they’re called dragon’s teeth or witch’s butter, these fungi offer us a glimpse into the fascinating diversity of life on Earth – all within one small package!