Mushiis in Motion: "Hedgehog Mushroom" Hydnum Repandum

These large and fleshy fungi grow in all kinds of damp woodland. In France this prized esculent goes by the charming name of Pied de Mouton. Further evidence of the reputation of these 'tooth fungi' is hidden in the generic name Hydnum, which is derived from the Greek name for a truffle. Both the Wood Hedgehog and its close relative the Terracotta Hedgehog Hydnum rufescens tend to be gregarious, forming small clumps and occasionally fairy circles.

The hedgehog, or sweet tooth, is perhaps the most foolproof to identify of all wild mushrooms. Its yellow to orange cap and fruity odor are reminiscent of its summer-fruiting relative the golden chanterelle, but its tooth-covered underside distinguishes it from potential look-alikes.