Forest Junkie

5 min read

LIVING IN THE SHADOWS: SWEDISH FUNGI AND MUSHROOMS

Where: Västerås, Västmanland

When: Best from late summer to early autumn

What: Exploring Swedish fungi and mushrooms

Sweden’s forests are known for their towering trees, serene lakes, and abundant wildlife, but there’s a whole world beneath the canopy that often goes unnoticed—fungi and mushrooms. Living in the shadows of the forest floor, these mysterious organisms play a crucial role in the ecosystem and add a touch of magic to any woodland walk.

THE HIDDEN WORLD OF FUNGI

Fungi are fascinating organisms that often go overlooked. They’re not plants, they’re not animals either—they belong to their own kingdom. What we commonly refer to as mushrooms are actually just the fruiting bodies of fungi, popping up from the ground or decaying wood to release spores and reproduce. The real body of the fungus, called the mycelium, is hidden underground, weaving through the soil and helping to decompose organic matter.

Mycelium, the underground network of fungal threads, is crucial for nutrient cycling in the forest. It forms intricate networks that connect tree roots, creating a "wood wide web" (sorry for that ;-) ) that allows trees to exchange nutrients and communicate. This symbiotic relationship helps trees share resources like water and minerals, and in return, fungi receive sugars produced by the trees through photosynthesis. Mycelium also plays a key role in breaking down dead plant material, recycling nutrients back into the soil, and maintaining soil health.

Sweden’s forests are home to a stunning variety of fungi, from the deadly Death Cap (Amanita phalloides) to the delicate yellow Chanterelle (Cantharellus cibarius), a favorite among foragers. Whether you’re a seasoned mushroom hunter or simply curious about the hidden world beneath your feet, there’s something enchanting about discovering these organisms in their natural habitat.

COMMON MUSHROOMS IN SWEDEN

Sweden’s forests are a treasure trove of fungal diversity, with a staggering number of mushroom species thriving in various habitats. From the lush, moss-covered floors to the decaying wood and damp undergrowth, the variety of fungi found here is truly impressive. The list below represents just a small selection of the many mushrooms you might encounter. For a more comprehensive exploration, I highly recommend picking up a local field guide to mushrooms. It will help you identify and appreciate the rich fungal world of Sweden’s woodlands.

CHANTERELLE (CANTHARELLUS CIBARIUS)

One of the most sought-after mushrooms in Sweden, the golden Chanterelle is prized for its rich, earthy flavor. You’ll often find them growing in clusters on mossy forest floors, especially in late summer and autumn.

WINTER CHANTERELLE (CRATERELLUS TUBAIFORMIS)

Also known as the yellowfoot or trumpet chanterelle, this mushroom is smaller and darker than the classic chanterelle. It’s abundant in Swedish forests, particularly in damp, mossy areas, and has a slightly spicy, earthy flavor.

FLY AGARIC (AMANITA MUSCARIA)

This iconic red mushroom with white spots is often depicted in fairy tales. While beautiful, the Fly Agaric is very toxic and should not be eaten. It’s a common sight in Swedish forests, especially under birch and pine trees.

PORCINI (BOLETUS EDULIS)

Known as Karljohansvamp in Sweden, the Porcini is a meaty mushroom with a nutty flavor, making it a popular ingredient in Swedish cuisine. Look for them in coniferous forests from late summer to autumn.

BRACKET FUNGI (POLYPORE)

These shelf-like fungi grow on trees and logs, and they come in a variety of shapes and sizes. While not edible, they play an important role in breaking down wood and returning nutrients to the forest soil.

DEATH CAP (AMANITA PHALLOIDES) As ominous as its name suggests, the Death Cap is one of the most poisonous mushrooms in the world. It can be found in Swedish forests, particularly under oak and beech trees. Foragers should be extremely cautious and avoid this deadly fungus.

CAULIFLOWER MUSHROOM (SPARASSIS CRISPA)

Resembling a large, creamy-white coral, the Cauliflower Mushroom can be found at the base of coniferous trees. It has a mild, nutty flavor and is often used in soups and stews.

SCALED TOOTH (SARCODON SQUAMOSUS)

Recognizable by its dark, scaly cap and the tooth-like spines (instead of gills) underneath. Although it has a slightly bitter taste, it is used in traditional Swedish cooking, especially after being dried to enhance its flavor.

GOLDEN SPINDLE (CLAVULINA CORALLOIDES)

Known as "Gullhorn" in Swedish, this striking, coral-like fungus is bright yellow and can be found in mossy forests. While not commonly eaten, it adds a splash of color to the forest floor.

WARTY PUFFBALL (LYCOPERDON PERLATUM)

Known as "Vårtig Röksvamp" in Swedish, this small, round mushroom has a bumpy surface and releases a cloud of spores when squeezed or stepped on. Common in Swedish forests, it’s an interesting find, though not particularly edible.

THE ROLE OF FUNGI IN THE ECOSYSTEM

Fungi might not be as majestic as a moose or as imposing as a towering pine, but they’re absolutely essential to the health of Sweden’s forests. These organisms break down dead plants and animals, recycling nutrients back into the soil. They also form symbiotic relationships with trees, helping them absorb water and minerals in exchange for sugars produced through photosynthesis.

Without fungi, forests would be buried under layers of dead leaves and logs. Their role as decomposers and recyclers keeps the ecosystem in balance, making them the unsung heroes of the woodland world.

FORAGING TIPS

If you’re interested in foraging for mushrooms, here are a few tips to get you started:

LEARN TO IDENTIFY MUSHROOMS: Invest in a good field guide or join a local foraging group to learn how to identify mushrooms safely. Some edible mushrooms have poisonous look-alikes, so it’s crucial to be certain of what you’re picking.

USE A KNIFE: When picking mushrooms, it’s best to use a knife to cut the stem rather than pulling the mushroom out of the ground. This helps leave the "root" or mycelium intact, allowing the mushroom to regrow in the future.

ONLY PICK WHAT YOU NEED: Foraging should be done sustainably. Only pick mushrooms you intend to use, and leave the rest for wildlife and other foragers.

RESPECT THE ENVIRONMENT: Stick to established trails where possible, and avoid disturbing the forest floor more than necessary.

KNOW THE LAW: In Sweden, the right of public access (Allemansrätten) allows you to forage for mushrooms, but be mindful of local regulations and protected areas.

The next time you find yourself wandering through a Swedish forest, take a moment to look down and appreciate the fungi growing beneath your feet. These often-overlooked organisms are a vital part of the ecosystem, and their diverse forms and colors add to the natural beauty of Sweden’s wild places. Whether you’re foraging for Chanterelles or simply admiring the Fly Agarics, there’s always something new to discover in the shadowy world of fungi and mushrooms.