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Mushrooms and fungi are something most of us recognize, whether we enjoy them or not. They're typically linked to food, medicine, or even as troublesome molds or the yeast used in baking. Nearly everyone has encountered them in some form, but these fungi take a wild turn, venturing deeper into the realm of the fantastic—sometimes eerie, often fascinating, or just downright strange.
10. Lobster Mushroom
Despite what its name may suggest, the lobster mushroom is not actually a mushroom in the conventional sense. At least, not entirely.
Hypomyces lactifluorum is a type of mold—vibrantly orange and parasitic, this fungus envelops its naturally white host, transforming it into something far more striking—like the color of a lobster!
They favor Russula or Lactarius mushrooms, which are known to produce a reportedly incredibly tasty combination! The name 'lobster mushroom' might sound tempting, though the mold aspect might put some off. However, in general, this parasitic orange mushroom, which smells of shellfish, transforms from a sharp, peppery mushroom into something mild and delicious—quite possibly one of the coolest things you could ever eat.
A little caution is recommended; while mushrooms of the Russula or Lactarius family are safe to eat, it’s technically possible for Hypomyces lactifluorum to infect a poisonous mushroom. Although such incidents are rare, being cautious is always wise—never consume something you’ve picked unless it has been properly identified by an expert.
9. Giant Puffball
Readers from certain parts of the world might be surprised to find the giant puffball mushroom on this list, as strange as it is, it’s actually quite common across mainland Europe, occasionally even popping up in the UK!
As their name implies, giant puffball mushrooms are enormous, smooth, and pure white, making them the perfect example of a 'puffball'.
These mushrooms can grow over a meter in diameter and may 'burst' to release their powdery spores hidden within.
Despite their peculiar appearance, they are edible and quite sought after by foragers. They’re also considered relatively safe, as it's unlikely to mistake a large, white, spherical, somewhat alien-looking mushroom for anything else.
One thing to remember, though—if you're suddenly craving these otherworldly mushrooms, aside from following our advice from the #10 entry, make sure the inside is pure white. Once it turns yellow or brown, the spores have matured, and the mushroom is no longer edible.
8. Mycena Chlorophos
Next on our list of fantastical fungi is one that might seem more conventional at first glance but is incredibly fascinating and, in fact, quite beautiful!
Mycena chlorophos is a naturally glowing mushroom! This tiny fungus grows in clusters and emits a striking green glow in the dark, offering a breathtaking sight—though spotting one in the wild is unfortunately rare.
As captivating as this species is, it remains quite enigmatic, largely because of its limited distribution. It’s mostly found in subtropical Asia, with a few scattered sightings in Brazil and Australia, where it was likely introduced artificially.
Because of its rarity and the mystery surrounding it, the mushroom’s edibility remains unknown. However, don’t get your hopes up, as it’s said to emit a smell resembling ammonia.
These mushrooms are typically found in decaying wood, and while their glow doesn’t last forever, they shine for about 72 hours after maturing, certainly a spectacle worth witnessing!
7. Indigo Milk Cap
Lactarius indigo, also known as the indigo milk cap, blue milk mushroom, or indigo lactarius, is a stunning mushroom with a deep blue hue. Its cap can grow up to 15 cm (around 6 inches) in diameter and is highly regarded for its distinct beauty and intriguing characteristics, making it a sought-after find among edible mushroom enthusiasts.
The name 'indigo milk cap' is fitting—when its flesh is cut or the gills are disturbed, it releases a bright blue, milky latex-like substance, which stands in stark contrast to the white ‘milk’ of its relatives.
This mushroom is also mycorrhizal, much like chanterelle mushrooms. It grows in proximity to trees, forming a mutually beneficial relationship where both the fungus and the trees exchange essential minerals and nutrients.
Although the indigo milk cap is edible, its flavor is generally described as rather bland or even slightly bitter, so it's not considered a culinary delicacy. It's more of an oddity to savor if you're eager to share the story of eating a blue, milky mushroom.
6. Bearded Tooth Mushroom
Hericium erinaceus, commonly known as the lion’s mane or bearded tooth mushroom, is a medicinal and edible forest fungus found in North America, Europe, and Asia. Its appearance is so remarkable that it could easily belong to the realm of fantastical plants!
These mushrooms grow on trees and form large, fascinating clumps that resemble cascading spines. Their long, sharp, downward-growing structures are often compared to icicles, with their usual white color turning yellow or brown over time. True to its name, the mushroom can be likened to a beard or an animal’s mane!
Not only is this mushroom edible and considered a treat, especially in China and Japan, but it also has a rich history of medicinal use in traditional Chinese medicine. Contemporary studies have revealed that it contains beneficial compounds that help with memory loss, anxiety, depression, dementia, neurological conditions, and even cancer!
If a large, spiny mushroom that grows on trees and offers both delicious flavors and healing properties doesn't seem like something out of a fantasy tale, then what would?
5. Shaggy Ink Cap
While we've already encountered a variety of fascinating and unusual mushrooms, this one stands out as truly remarkable!
Coprinus comatus, known by several names such as the shaggy ink cap, shaggy mane, or the ‘lawyer’s wig’ mushroom, is as impressive as its names suggest. This small, egg-shaped mushroom is commonly found in woods, meadows, fields, and can even appear suddenly in clusters on lawns, typically starting off with a white hue.
These unique fungi, aside from sprouting unexpectedly in clusters or various formations, are especially notable for their color transformation. They start white, and their gills gradually break down and turn into black ink, producing a beautiful gradient. Eventually, the mushroom turns completely black, mirroring the color of its spores.
Though not particularly rare, the sudden appearance and stunning transformation of this mushroom into ink make it an extraordinary sight to behold!
4. Black Brain Fungus
Exidia glandulosa earns perhaps the most fitting common name on our list—black brain fungus (also known as black witches’ butter). True to its name, this fungus boasts a striking black color in wet conditions and a greasy, butter-like texture, almost resembling tar.
This intriguing fungus can be found across Europe and North America during the autumn and winter months. Its appearance often sparks mixed reactions—some find its look captivating and unique, while others might find it rather off-putting. Regardless, there's no denying how distinct it is!
Typically seen on dead wood and fallen branches, the black brain fungus has a squishy, gelatinous texture. While its edibility is highly questionable, even if it were safe to consume, it likely wouldn't offer much in terms of nutritional value. As visually striking as it may be, it’s probably wiser to stick with actual butter if you're feeling hungry.
3. Bleeding Tooth Fungus
We’ve reached the final fungus on our list, and it fittingly holds the title for the most astonishing and incredible appearance of them all. Hydnellum peckii, commonly known as the bleeding tooth fungus, devil’s tooth, or even ‘strawberries and cream’, is another perfectly fitting name for this unique organism.
The adult form of this fungus might not be particularly striking, but when it’s young, it transforms into something truly remarkable!
The young fungus has an off-white, almost beige or pinkish hue, dotted with numerous ‘pores’ from which oozes a vibrant red or dark crimson liquid that strongly resembles blood.
This liquid, actually a type of sap, creates the eerie illusion that the fungus is bleeding from numerous spots, thanks to a red pigment within the organism.
However, not all about this fungus is unnerving—one of its compounds, thelephoric acid, is currently being studied for its potential to treat Alzheimer’s disease!
Lastly, if you were curious about sampling this extraordinary species, while it’s not toxic, it is notably bitter and thus regrettably considered inedible.
At the end of the day, it might not be appetizing, but it would certainly stand out as an eye-catching feature on the cover of a fantasy novel!
2. Chicken of the Woods
Laetiporus sulphureus, also known as the chicken of the woods, is a large, edible polypore mushroom with a striking yellow or orange hue. It grows on trees and, much like the others on this list, offers some fascinating traits alongside its unique appearance.
Perhaps most intriguingly, the chicken of the woods truly lives up to its name—it tastes just like chicken! Yes, really!
It’s not uncommon for people to joke about how something tastes like chicken, but in this case, it’s no joke! This mushroom is relatively high in protein and has become a popular vegetarian substitute for chicken!
Often enjoyed breaded and fried, it’s considered best when harvested young and fresh, and it also freezes quite well.
A slight drawback to this chicken substitute, however, is that a small percentage of individuals may experience nausea or other side effects after consumption. Additionally, it’s crucial to ensure it hasn’t absorbed potentially harmful substances from the tree it was growing on.
But as long as those precautions are kept in mind, this mushroom could prove to be not only an intriguing find but also an incredibly delicious one!
1. The Devil’s Cigar
Chorioactis, often called the devil’s cigar or Texas star in the U.S. and kirinomitake in Japan, is an incredibly rare and visually striking genus of fungi, with only one species to its name: Chorioactis geaster. This species truly deserves its place as the star of this list!
Known for its unique and almost flower- or star-like appearance, this fungus is incredibly rare, found only in a handful of Texas counties and a select few locations in Japan. Its distribution is so limited that it almost seems random!
Its rarity and stunning look aren’t its only fascinating qualities. This mushroom begins life resembling an American football or cigar before it splits open with a hissing sound, releasing its cigar-shaped spores, and transforms into a beautiful, flower-like structure with three to six ‘petals.’
