Finding new types of wild edible mushrooms can be a rewarding experience. While some mushroom foragers know what they like and only go for certain species of edible mushrooms, others want to collect as many different kinds as possible. The more types of wild edible mushrooms you find, the more opportunities there are to experiment in the kitchen with the different flavors, looks, and textures.

Below, we’ll highlight three kinds of unique wild edible mushrooms that can be found in Northern California. Orange Peel Fungus offers a striking aesthetic. The Turkey Tail mushroom is also beautiful and is known for its medicinal properties. Lastly, the Pig’s Ear mushroom is a meaty fungus with a delicious earthy flavor.

Orange Peel Fungus

This species of mushroom is a brilliant orange color. Orange Peel Fungus likes to grow from disturbed soil. It starts out in a cup-like shape, but eventually flattens out with age. The top part of Orange Peel Fungus is quite bright, while the underside of these mushrooms is paler in comparison. These mushrooms have thin flesh and are edible, though they do not pack much of a flavor. Regardless, the striking appearance of Orange Peel Mushrooms can really add to a dinner spread.

Turkey Tail

This polypore mushroom sports a variety of colors. Turkey Tail mushrooms are known for their immune-boosting benefits. They have been shown to stimulate immune function and reduce inflammation. In fact, they have been used as early as the 1400’s in traditional Chinese medicine. They have a fall-like appearance with colors moving in concentric circles. Turkey Tail mushrooms are commonly found growing on decaying trees or logs. These sought-after mushrooms are a great addition to any diet for their unique look and health benefits.

Pig’s Ear

Also known as the Violet Chanterelle, the Pig’s Ear mushroom is considered one of the better-tasting wild edible mushrooms by many. Their meaty texture has an earthy flavor that pairs well with red meat dishes. Growing on their own or in large clusters in Northern California, these mushrooms are typically found in coniferous forests. Like many kinds of wild mushrooms, Pig’s Ear mushrooms are better enjoyed when young. This is because they get more bitter with age and also become more susceptible to insect infestations. The wrinkly and vase-shaped caps of Pig’s Ear mushrooms are orange-brown to violet in color.

There are a lot of ways to incorporate wild edible mushrooms into your diet. Whether you fry them, add them to a sauce, or put them into a salad, mushrooms add great flavor and texture to a meal. Plus, they are packed with all types of nutritional benefits. Luckily for the people of Northern California, there are a range of wild edible mushrooms to choose from.

Want to find your own? We have mushroom foraging classes all season in Marin, Sonoma, and the Santa Cruz Mountains. PLUS, seaweed classes all summer and wild edible plants year round.