Fungi Time

I've taken pictures of this fungus a few times over the past few weeks. I had no idea what it was - my shamefully thin knowledge of wild fungi could barely cover the back of a stamp. After some checking I've decided that it must be Auricularia auricula-judae, also known as the Jew's Ear, Jelly Ear or by a number of other names. Apparently edible and very popular in China. It certainly has a very fleshy look but I've not taken any to eat as it really doesn't look that delicious to me and I'm pretty sure I can guess the reaction of the kids if I suggested it.


ps. Better seen in large