An abundant mushroom, the Western Jack O'Lantern (Omphalotus olivascens) and its cousins are often mistaken by amateur mycologists for the much more edible and desirable chanterelle. In addition to delivering a nasty stomach ache to the unwary, some report that Omphalotus harbors a delightful surprise ability to glow in the dark. Much like the trickster symbol… Continue reading Get an (Ompha)lotus that purple!
Month: February 2019
A Chemistry Lesson
It's one thing to see a surprising dye color emerge straight from its plant/fungal source such as the pink hiding inside avocados, but it's another entirely to observe a pale, barely-there color turn vivid with the addition of another solute. A little bit of chemistry and patience can take a small dye palette and expand… Continue reading A Chemistry Lesson