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MUSHROOMS. 



Oyster Mushroom (Agaricus ostreatus). — This fungus 

 grows on the bark of elm, apple, and ash trees in masses or 

 tiers one above the other in spring and late autumn. The 

 pileus is of a dingy or dark hue, as a rule, occasionally 

 whitish or brownish. The flesh is fibrous and firm, and of 

 a savoury nature when cooked. Says Mr. Worthing-ton G. 

 Smith : "A dish of this species stewed before a very hot fire 

 has proved as enjoyable and nourishing as ' a half-pound 



[FLoto : Mrs. Tambnll. 

 Prickly Cap Fungus (Agaricus [Pholiota] tquarrosus). 

 A species found growing- in Antnmn at the base of ash trees. 



of fresh meat.' " It is, however, not one of the most deli- 

 cious of our native fungi. 



Liver Fungus (Fistulina hepatica).— A species which 

 grows on the trunks of old oak trees. It has the appearance 

 of a tongue or piece of liver, and when cut exudes a red 

 juice similar to that seen in uncooked beef or liver. On 

 account of this similarity it is also called the "Vegetable 



