Gilled Mushrooms with Lilac Spores

Although most fungi are harmless, a small number are extremely toxic, and should be handled with caution. Never eat a fungus unless you are completely certain of its identity, and the species is known to be edible. If in doubt, discard it.

Pleurotus dryinus

Pleurotus dryinus

29 October 2006 Hampshire. Photograph copyright Leif Goodwin.

Pleurotus ostreatus

Pleurotus ostreatus

29 October 2025 Near Lyndhurst, New Forest, Hampshire. Photograph copyright Leif Goodwin.

Pleurotus pulmonarius

Pleurotus pulmonarius

6 June 2010 Surrey. Photograph copyright Leif Goodwin.