Jesper Launder came to our October meeting laden with freshly picked fungi and invited us in to the magical world of the mushroom.

Jesper is a medicinal herbalist by trade and his scientific explanation of the different kinds of mushroom was beautifully balanced with his superb storytelling skills.  He transported us around the world in a time machine by telling us stories of how mushrooms have been used for a multitude of purposes including lighting fires, sharpening knives, and antiseptic. It was utterly fascinating.

A selection of mushrooms picked in 20 minutes…

We were encouraged to touch, smell and taste the mushrooms to help us fully understand their different properties and uses – some smell like cheap soap, whilst others taste of chilli.

This one smells funny…

The story of the Fly Agaric had us hooked…

You can pick Porcini in Hebden Bridge…

Caroline with Hen of the Woods – we all got to take away a piece of this for breakfast

Written and posted by Amy