Wednesday, November 17, 2010

Ugliest Mushroom Ever!!!

Has anyone noticed these mysterious aliens along the side of the road on Whidbey? Several of these ugly species are growing larger each day along Wildes road shoulder. They are totally grey with darker shades of black and definitely look highly toxic!! Not recommended for mushroom soup. They are so unusual I couldn't resist an attempt to sketch them and share the results with everyone.

7 comments:

  1. Interesting. I've never seen them before. Will keep an eye out for them.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Nice rendition or Helvella lacunosa, common name Elfin Saddle.
    There said to be edible when cooked, but I'll pass, thank you.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Weird! Now you've inspired me to look for them (but NOT eat them).

    ReplyDelete
  4. Just take a walk along Wildes Road with a sharp eye because of their color they sort of blend in the dirt and greens along the shoulder. Azar and Sherryl, thank you for the botanical name; this really is a known species then, amazing. What is amazing is that my visual drawing was recognizable for you to identify it! Yea!

    By the way, I found the Firehouse studio closed at 1:00; the glassblower decided to go home.

    ReplyDelete
  5. found these growing in my yard in Shelton, WA. I googled ugliest mushroom and found your post. Thanks for helping me to identify.

    ReplyDelete
  6. Steven: This year the variety of mushrooms on Whidbey seem to be more plentiful than any other year. Some of the mushrooms are huge (dinner plate size) with the edges turning upward. I find them interesting to look at while on my walks but not that interesting to include in my meals. Hope you enjoyed my blog.

    ReplyDelete