EXOTIC FUNGI

Unabashedly exotic, waxcaps are to fungi what orchids are to plants. These extroverts also hold importance for conservationists, being indicators of mushroom-rich grassland that has avoided being agriculturally ‘improved’ by chemicals. The name ‘waxcap’ refers to the texture of the cap. Typically waxy or slimy, in the case of this species it is greasy. A rainbow of 20odd species flourishes across the British Isles, with scarlet waxcap among the most common. October is the peak month for fruiting.

GET INVOLVED Join a foray on UK Fungus Day, 8 October: www.ukfungusday.co.uk