Cheering Up My Monday: Shaggy Ink Cap

Last Thursday I cycled the off-road Waterford Greenway with my wife. We had a fantastic day and a very tasty lunch on the way. On our return cycle, we stopped to sit on a bench strategically placed to allow us to admire the stunning view of local hills, and while we sat, I noticed some mushrooms growing in the tall grass.

Coprinus comatus

Later, I put out an Instagram and Garden Tags request to help me identify this, and the results came back in double quick time.

"It's Coprinus comatus", says Ben.

Problem solved! Yet more information arrived via the internet wires and cables from the US, Italy and England. The common name is Shaggy Ink Cap, edible when young and fresh.

"In Italy we call them mazze di tamburo which means drum maces", says Chantal. "When the hat is open (as in the back ones), it is cooked on the plate and then seasoned with oil and parsley."

I was able to send some Irish language idioms back across the miles to my assistants, and I mentioned that the phrase for mushroom is "fás aon oiche", which means one-night growth. Therefore, the circle of information is complete. The internet is now full, and is accepting no further data.

Sit with yourself: Do nothing, breathe and watch yourself.
After a while, you will feel a positive change inside.

Happy gardening, wherever you are!.

About the author: Páraig is the author of Petals By Páraig. He loves mushrooms and photographs of mushrooms. He also loves connecting with others far and near, but not while driving.