IDENTIFIER: EXOTIC FUNGI

Impress friends by adeptly recognising these mysterious plants and secure yourself a reputation as a really fun-guy

Green Skinhead

An Aussie fungi, found among the roots of gum trees. Sounds anti-establishment but has featured on an Australian stamp.

Poison Fire Coral

A fungi without the fun – it’s caused the deaths of several people in Japan. Thankfully, it’s rather uncommon.

Golden Scruffy

Looks like a teen boy with a love of hair gel. As confusing as a teen, too, its genus causing debate among experts.

Unicorn Pinkgill

This unicorn – presumably named for its elongated point – definitely does exist, across the Americas and in Eastern Asia.

Plantpot Dapperling

This poisonous but lazy plant grows in houseplants around the world – getting in on the potting compost action.

Starfish fungus

Pretty but pungent. Known for producing an evil-smelling slime, which attracts flies but, frankly, the rest of us could do without.

Mauve Splitting-Waxcap

When it is an old fungi, it will not wear purple. This Australasian specialty turns pale yellowish as it ages.

The Hairy Tropical Goblet

An outer surface covered with hairs and a goblet-like shape to catch rainwater. Also wins the literal naming competition.

Fragile Dapperling

Common but not coarse. With a cap that’s often as thin and translucent as tissue paper, it lives up to its name.