The inkcap group of mushroom species get their name from their caps which deliquesce as they have shed their spores. From the rim inwards they turn into a black mushy-looking mass which then disappears. The deliquescing black mass from one of the larger and more common inkcap species was the main ingredient in one recipe for making ink in centuries gone by.
This is the last remant of a magpie inkcap with deliquescence almost complete, and another in a similar state peeping out behind.
Magpie inkcaps, a striking mushroom species, with remnants of a protective veil forming irregular white patches over the grey or black fibrous surface of the cap.
Most field guides describe this species as preferring beech woods on chalky soil, an environment not found in the west midlands. These mushrooms, and others which will feature in the next two posts, are the first magpie inkcaps I’ve ever seen. They were growing under an oak tree in the park in Bridgnorth castle grounds – perhaps brought in on the wood mulch which had been spread thickly there.
Blue mould growing on a small mushroom. The first picture was taken early on a frosty morning, the other a few days previously when the weather was warmer.
Frost on the ends of the leaves of mounds of moss growing on garden walls, rapidly melting just minutes after the sun rose.
The Prince is an uncommon mushroom which grows in association with deciduous or coniferous trees. These were growing under a small stand including the yew which was the source of the berries scattered over the ground.
Frosting on a clump of purple heather growing right next to the white variety featured yesterday.
