Ghost Pipe helps to locate Lobster Mushrooms

Ghost Pipe, Photo by Allyzilla

Ghost Pipe is a plant that hijacks the underground fungal network for food, it especially likes an the edible (but not incredible) Russula brevipes.

Russula Brevipes, Photo by Sean Haight

Russula brevipes is also parasitized by another fungus called Hypomyces lactifluorum, and together they become the delicious edible Lobster Mushroom!

Lobster Mushroom, Photo by  Dan Molter (shroomydan)

When you find Ghost Pipe, mark the spot and return after the next heavy rain to increase your chances of finding Lobsters.

Learn everything you need to know to find and safely eat mushrooms in the Pacific Northwest at www.pnwfungiforager.com