Auricularia auricula-judae · Auriculariaceae
Also called Jews Ear, Wood Ear
Rubbery brown ears growing on elder all year round. The same species sold dried in Chinese cookery.
Edible. None known, though it is very chewy if undercooked.
Read the full foraging safety guidance.
All year
Nothing dangerous. Other jelly fungi are yellow or brain-shaped.
Slice thinly and simmer in soups and stir-fries for texture rather than flavour. Dries and rehydrates perfectly.
Calocybe gambosa
A solid white spring mushroom of grassland, traditionally appearing around St Georges Day.
Boletus edulis
The most sought-after wild mushroom in Britain: nutty, firm and richly scented, with a pale bun-like cap and a fat netted stem.
Cantharellus cibarius
Egg-yolk yellow, trumpet-shaped and smelling faintly of apricots. One of the safest and finest edibles once learned.
