MUSHROOMS OF MT. SUTRO

Mushrooms are fruiting bodies of fungi, the threadlike organisms that form extensive networks that infiltrate earth, plants, animals, and decaying matter. When the time is right—usually after a fair amount of rain and the proper temperatures (in the Bay Area, it’s usually from November-March), the fungal organism (mycelium) produces mushrooms that develop and release spores necessary for reproduction.

On Mt. Sutro, the oil in fallen eucalyptus bark and leaves inhibits abundant fungal growth, yet there are a number of interesting saprophytic fungi—the variety that feed on dead and decaying matter. Here are a few:

Coprinus, “Inky Caps” (young and mature)

This unique genus of mushrooms disperses their spores by autodigesting themselves at maturity, turning into a black, inky fluid that drips, carrying their spores to the ground.

Laetiporous gilbertsonii, “Chicken of the Woods” (young and mature)

This candy corn-colored species is a dramatic find on Mt. Sutro, where it seems to have an affinity for eucalyptus stumps. 

Chlorophylum brunneum, ”Shaggy Parasol”

This relatively large mushroom is often seen on disturbed margins of trails. Its distinctive shaggy cap and orange bruising help distinguish it.

Trametes versicolor, ”Turkey Tail”

With its velvety zones of color, this is certainly one of the most attractive and common shelf mushrooms on the mountain. It has uses as a natural dye, a health food supplement, and environmental remediation.

Phaeoclavulina myceliosa, Coral Fungi

Unlike gilled mushrooms, coral fungi bear spores in the surface of their stipes (stalks).An unusual find on Mt. Sutro. This one surfaced along the Mystery Trail.

Leucocoprinus cepistipes, "Onion Stalk Parasol"

At least 100 of these charming, forest debris-loving fungi popped their caps up among native b

lackberry along the Historic Trail.  This is the largest mass fruiting I've yet encountered on the mountain.

Next time you’re walking on the mountain, move slow and look low. There you’ll find fungi waiting to surprise and delight with their unusual beauty as they recycle and transform forest habitat.