Nature notes and Countryside News
- King Alfred’s cakes (Daldinia concentrica)
- Candle Snuff fungus (Xylaria hypoxylon)
- Haw berries
- Sloes
- Rose Hips
King Alfred’s cakes (Daldinia concentrica)
These fungi are common on dead wood, especially on Ash. They got their name from the tale of King Alfred’s burning of the cakes. Whilst fighting invading Danes in the 9th Century, Alfred took refuge with a peasant woman who told him to keep an eye on the griddle cakes cooking on the fire. He let his thoughts wander and the cakes burned which earned him a good scolding when the peasant woman returned.Also known as Cramp Balls in the belief that if you keep one in your pocket you’ll never suffer from cramp!
Candle Snuff fungus (Xylaria hypoxylon)
A distinctive and common fungus found on damp decaying wood. So named either because it resembles the blown-out wick of a candle or because it is similarly shaped to a candle snuffer. Also called Staghorn because the shape is antler-like.
Haw berries
The fruit of the Hawthorn is probably the most common autumn fruit on the Downs. Whilst providing a vital food source for over-wintering wild birds like Redwing and Fieldfare, the bright red berries can also be used to flavour jams and jellies.
Sloes
Distinctive fruit of the Blackthorn, the blue/black fruit also provides food for over-wintering birds but more importantly perhaps provides a key ingredient for Sloe Gin, a warming drink for cold winter nights best drunk in front of an open fire.
Rose Hips
Again providing food for birds the bright orange/red fruit of the wild Rose provides added colour on dull autumn days. The hips are the main ingredient in Rose Hip Syrup which contains high levels of vitamin C and is used in many herbal remedies.
