Mycena haematopsus
Bleeding Mycena; Bleeding Fairy Helmet
Blood pools in little droplets and run down my fingertips, staining skin along the way.
Maybe those myths I’d rolled my eyes at were true. Touching mushrooms is dangerous.
Or maybe I was just having fun with another weird fungus.
I knew exactly what would seep out when I tore the mushroom’s stipe. These beech hungry little mushrooms “bleed” dark red latex when cut or broken.
I first learned about bleeding mycena on a group foray with Ohio Mushroom Society. An experienced mushroomer identified them and demonstrated their gory goodness.
I recently learned they’re slightly bioluminescent, so I’ll have take some home when I find them next and watch them glow in total darkness.
Usually growing in clusters, these mycena are distinguished by their wine red, almost translucent flesh. The conical caps have white, raggedy protrusions on the margin which often curl upward. The rims on these “fairy helmets” are remnants of a partial veil, which covered the gills as they matured.
Bleeding mycena are fairly unique, so you’ll probably recognize them if you see some.
Of course, if there is any doubt, the blood dripping from their wounds should put aside any skepticism.
Tell your friends you heard it from me.
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