Mushrooms
While many fungi are absolutely fascinating and pose no risk to the health of your trees or woodlands, some fungi act as pathogens and diseases of trees. Foraging for fungi can be a great way to enjoy the natural world around us. However, when foraging for fungi it is best to exercise extreme caution in your ID and harvesting of wild fungi. Some fungi are extremely toxic and may result in illness, serious injury or even death. State and federal lands may also have regulations in place or require permits to forage for mushrooms. Be sure to check all regulations and ensure that you are not trespassing on private land before setting out to forage for fungi. And of course, only harvest what you know you will use; leave plenty for the wildlife and other foragers. Click on the links below to learn more.
Shiitake Mushrooms are an edible mushroom native to East Asia. It is normally larger than the white button mushrooms (Agaricus spp.) found in your local supermarket, are honey to dark chocolate brown in cap color. They have meaty flesh and a distinctive, somewhat nutty or garlicky flavor. Read more about Shiitake mushrooms here.
